ABSTRACT
The role of play in sibling life should not be underestimated. Siblings have the opportunity to play together, and through this develop the ability to symbolise in relationship. Observers of siblings frequently note their remarkable ability to discern one another’s feelings. Siblings can be very close, but they can also be passionate opponents. The intimacy of siblings and quasi-siblings is for most of us the crucible in which we first learn how to make friends, how to get over quarrels, how to share, and how to control our hatred and destructiveness with our peers. In all their games and interactions siblings will be negotiating their positions, working out where they fit and who they are, noticing their similarities and differences. If children are too differentiated by their parents, or if parents are controlling, neglectful or abuse their power, then this can have a detrimental impact on the sibling relationship.
