ABSTRACT
In our study of adult sibling relationships we explored three specific areas: perceptions of closeness, sibling rivalry, and critical incidents and their consequences to the relationships. We wanted to know what it means to be close to a brother or sister, and what brings closeness about. Why are some siblings closer than others? Why are they closer at particular times in their lives? Do feelings of closeness change through the life span in identifiable patterns? How does sibling rivalry affect these relationships? Who starts it? How long does it last? Is it always detrimental to the siblings, or the relationships, or can it also be beneficial? If so, under what circumstances? How do critical incidents, both anticipated and unexpected, change feelings of closeness, sibling rivalry, and sibling relationships in general? We wanted to know what these incidents are, and we wanted to find out about their short-term and long-term consequences. Do they affect all siblings alike?
