The Complex Relationship Between College-Aged Youngest Siblings and Their Older Siblings

Extensive research has been conducted on the sibling relationship and the complex dynamics that make them up. However, little research has been done on adult siblings and how their relationship with their siblings has changed over the course of their lives. Thus, the purpose of this study is to describe the experiences of youngest siblings, specifically college-aged siblings, and how their relationship with their older siblings has changed over time. I interviewed six college students between the ages of 19-20 and each participant had at least two older siblings. Overall results indicated that age of the siblings have an impact on sibling closeness and on how the youngest sibling is treated by their older siblings. The research also indicated that youngest siblings valued support from their older siblings and that each participant believed the sibling relationship to be unique and important.