How To Avoid Jealousy Between Siblings?

It is very important for parents to know how to act to avoid jealousy between siblings. It can also serve to prevent conflicts in the future.

Jealousy is a natural feeling that people show when they feel afraid of losing a loving bond.

In a family, it is normal for this feeling to arise when a new sibling arrives. The child experiences it as if the parents’ love is at stake.

Some experts believe that jealousy arises spontaneously when a child finds out that a new sibling is on the way. After that, it is part of the adjustment process where the child begins to realize that he or she is no longer at the center of the family’s attention.

Even if it is normal  , parents should try to prevent jealousy between siblings for as long as possible. If the child feels an intense jealousy, it can lead to depression, anxiety and low self-esteem.

Causes of jealousy between siblings

Fear is the basis of all jealousy. The child is dominated by his anguish over losing his parents’ love and affection.

Jealousy arises when a child experiences that his or her feelings are not answered to the degree that he or she would like.

Another reason for jealousy is the mother’s changed attitude before the birth of the new child.

This change can be difficult to tolerate for the child who is used to relating to their parents in a particular way. The child may begin to feel that he or she is being replaced.

Sometimes  parents use persuasion methods with their children that can be harmful. Phrases like “if you do not eat, mother will not play with you”.

Children may interpret this phrase as negative; they may think that their mother will only play with a child who fulfills their desires.

Comparisons can also be the basis for jealousy and should therefore be avoided. Each child is unique and should be assigned equal value.

Contrary to many people’s beliefs, even younger siblings may feel jealous of their older siblings. Mutual jealousy can also occur in some cases.

Whenever a child believes that a sibling is being treated favorably, there is a risk that jealousy will arise.

The consequences of jealousy

Jealousy has negative consequences for a child’s behavior. This is one of the reasons why parents should prevent jealousy from occurring between siblings.

• The child may adopt an aggressive or irritated behavior.
• The child may be withdrawn or sad.

• When a child is small, it can show a decline in development. It can, for example, return to urinating in bed.
• The child may have an outbreak.

These behaviors aim to get more attention.

How to avoid jealousy between siblings?

It is important to  strengthen the child’s self-esteem. The child’s insecurity towards his or her new sibling may decrease if he or she feels properly integrated into the family.

The child must be aware that the parents’ feelings are fair and transparent.

When a new member is joining the family  , parents should maintain good contact with older siblings. They should also explain the changes that are taking place and will occur.

Try to continue with the baby’s usual routine before the new sibling arrives. Meals and sleeping and bathing routines should be kept unchanged.

Choosing a side in favor of one or another child can be very harmful when a conflict between them arises. Parents should try to stay out of these confrontations (as far as possible) so that the siblings can resolve the conflict themselves.

Parents should show understanding to both siblings. Every child must feel that they are right.

Parents must have the ability to listen on both sides. Every child should feel that their parents understand their arguments. It is the best way to avoid jealousy between siblings.