ABSTRACT
Accurate assessment of sibling relationships poses unique problems. Family clinicians generally are reluctant to apply formal assessment measures; often, the introduction of such measures feels intrusive. In addition, the family assessment literature lacks adequate sibling measures. Family environment instruments generally are developed to measure overall family functioning rather than the perception and reaction to sibling events by individual children. Most family therapists acquire information for assessment while simultaneously conducting initial clinical interviews with clients. Yet to treat complex abusive family systems effectively, comprehensive individual and family assessment data are essential.
