Siblings

Abstract

Original Italian translation by Paul Foulkes The sibling relationship consists of a complex web of emotions and feelings, linked to elements of a cognitive, cultural and social kind which are not easy to disentangle. Yet it deserves far more attention than it has received until now. Its wide spectrum of significance depends on many variables such as difference of age, gender, social status, religion, cultural and economic values. It is a relationship that springs from the earliest history of the individual and which plays a vital part in determining characteristics of identity and personality. Yet more complex and wider-ranging meanings concerning the symbolic value of the sibling relationship become apparent when looking at the family as a group, a web of primary relationships with aspects both intrapsychic and those relating to wider social stratifications. It is this very richness which causes difficulties when we consider which elements to use in research. Complex methods of research are required in this neglected field, and this article sets out key elements as a basis for future investigation and debate.