Why Sibling Bonds Grow After Divorce

Divorces come with a lot of negativity. It splits up a relationship. It stresses out kids. It creates instability. It causes financial turmoil. It causes depression and other health problems. The list goes on.

There’s one good thing that often comes from a divorce when there are two or more children involved: the children become closer to each other. That’s because divorces can be nasty. They cause a lot of negative emotions. But siblings tend to find solace in each other. That’s because in such a turbulent situation such as a divorce, they feel like one another’s sole constant.

Why Sibling Relationships Change

Studies show that a person’s relationship with a brother or sister often becomes closer and more meaningful during a divorce. This relationship is often better than the relationship the siblings have with the parents. This is because parents tend to have trouble dealing with their own feelings and issues during a divorce. They become emotionally unavailable, causing siblings to turn to each other in the midst of a divorce.

Siblings are considered to be fellow survivors of childhood. They witness each other’s ups and downs as well as formative events that shape them. The relationship with a sibling tends to provide a sort of a buffer when the children experience their parents’ divorce. This buffer protects children from the harmful effects of the divorce, such as stress, anxiety, anger, and depression. Children can also face other stressors, such as new living situations, relocation to a different town, and a change in schools. Later on, they may even experience new family members, such as stepparents and step-siblings.

Brothers and sisters can provide each other with comfort, stability, and other resources. For example, a sibling may assist a younger brother or sister with homework and even provide moral support and caretaking.

The company of a sibling can provide reassurance during these tough times while promoting resilience. Because of this unique bond, those with siblings tend to fare better in a divorce than only children.

Siblings tend to spend more time with each other than with anyone else. While it’s understandable that parents have their own emotional and legal issues during a divorce, they should still do their part to protect their children from the effects of divorce. They can do so by

promoting the consistent, everyday involvement that only siblings can provide.

Contact a Maryland Family Law Attorney Today

Divorces can be stressful for children, but having a brother or sister going through the same process with them can bring them closer together. Even if their parents cannot remain together, at least they can stay with their siblings.

A Columbia family lawyer from The Law Offices of Todd K. Mohink, P.A. can help you deal with the emotional aspects of divorce and keep the peace for the sake of your children. Schedule a free consultation by filling out the online form or calling (410) 774-5987.

Source:

psychologytoday.com/us/blog/brothers-sisters-strangers/202203/siblings-may-grow-closer-when-parents-divorce