Sibling Abuse: Types, Signs, & Prevention

What Is Sibling Abuse?

Sibling abuse refers to one sibling intentionally causing harm to another. Sibling abuse is often hidden and underreported but can have long-lasting effects on the victims. Forms of sibling abuse can include physical violence (i.e., hitting, slapping, or kicking) and emotional abuse (i.e., constant teasing, belittling, or manipulation). Recognizing and addressing sibling abuse is crucial to protecting the safety and well-being of all family members.

Sibling abuse falls into the following categories:^1,2,3

• Physical abuse: Physical abuse includes behaviors such as hitting, biting, shoving, choking, punching, or slapping.
• Emotional abuse: An emotionally abusive sibling targets self-esteem to intimate, express dominance, and gain control. Examples of sibling emotional abuse include name-calling, belittling, teasing, insulting, threatening, destroying property, and relational aggression.
• Sexual abuse: Sibling sexual abuse involves using power to bribe or threaten a sibling into sexual activity. The abuser is typically older or stronger and wins the trust of their younger, ‘weaker’ sibling. Examples of sibling sexual abuse include touching, penetration, sexual coercion, watching sexually explicit content, or watching their victim get dressed or shower.

Sibling Abuse Vs. Normal Sibling Rivalries

The main difference between sibling rivalry and abuse is the severity, frequency, and nature of conflicts.⁴ Sibling rivalry often occurs over “tangible or intangible resources” and can effectively be resolved with parental or professional guidance. Sibling abuse differs as these conflicts often arise without reason and can become more aggressive.

How Common Is Sibling Abuse?

The prevalence of sibling abuse varies depending on the definition and scope of the behavior. Studies have shown abusive siblings are not uncommon, with the estimated prevalence of physical aggression between siblings being about 32% and approximately 7% for severe violence.⁵

Many families may underreport sibling abuse due to the perception that such behavior is normative or less severe than other forms of abuse. Cultural factors and societal norms may also influence the disclosure of dysfunctional sibling dynamics.

Signs of Sibling Abuse

Signs of sibling abuse may be overt, such as name-calling or physical abuse. In other cases, abusers can be more subtle, relying on manipulation tactics or intimidation to exert control. The victim may exhibit unexplained injuries or noticeable changes in behavior. Depending on the nature of the abuse, they may also appear more interested in sexual-related activities or topics, such as inappropriate touching or playing “doctor” with friends.

Physical and behavioral signs of sibling abuse include:

• Changes in sleep patterns
• Missing or skipping school
• Inability to focus
• Unexplained bruises and/or injuries
• Overly sexualized behavior
• Frequently playing “doctor” or engaging in provocative play
• Using explicit sexual language
• Suicide attempts
• Rebellious or defiant behavior
• Attempting to run away

Emotional and psychological signs of sibling abuse include:

• Fear of being around siblings
• Withdrawal or isolation
• Loss of interest
• Decreased confidence
• Low self-esteem
• Anxiety
• depression

Risk Factors for Sibling Abuse

Risk factors for sibling abuse include a history of violence or abuse within the family, parental neglect or lack of supervision, and the presence of aggression or conflict in the household. Parental substance misuse and mental health issues can also contribute to an environment that perpetuates or normalizes violence.

Risk factors associated with sibling abuse include:⁶

• Dysfunctional family dynamics: Dysfunctional family dynamics, such as poor communication, unresolved conflicts, or a lack of support, can contribute to sibling abuse by fostering an environment of tension and hostility.
• Exposure to violence: Witnessing chronic domestic or external violence can increase the likelihood of sibling abuse as children learn and emulate these aggressive behaviors.
• Lack of parental supervision: A lack of parental supervision or involvement can provide fertile ground for sibling abuse to occur, as parents enforce fewer restrictions or consequences for aggressive behavior.
• Substance abuse: Substance abuse impairs judgment and can lead to more volatile interactions between parents and children. This behavior can reinforce the belief that aggression and dysfunction are normal.
• Parental favoritism: Consistently preferring one child over a sibling can fuel resentment and feelings of injustice that may manifest as abuse.
• Sex of the child: Cultural or societal expectations and stereotypes potentially influence how children navigate sibling relationships. For example, many people believe girls should be meek and submissive, leading to increased instances of male sibling abuse toward a sister.
• Age of the child: Significant age gaps may result in power imbalances or a higher risk of abuse toward younger or more vulnerable siblings.
• Experiences with bullying: Experiences with bullying, whether at school or within the family, can contribute to aggressive behaviors among siblings.
• Lack of rules or boundaries: A lack of clear rules or boundaries within the family can create an atmosphere where aggression goes unchecked, allowing sibling abuse to thrive.
• Sibling competition: Sibling competition for attention, resources, or parental favor can result in aggressive or harmful behaviors toward one another.

Effects of Sibling Abuse in Childhood & Adulthood

Sibling abuse can lead to both short- and long-term consequences that develop throughout childhood and persist into adulthood. Children may experience heightened anxiety and a fear of others that manifests as substance use, avoidance behavior, and depression as they age. Some may also gravitate toward codependent relationships or engage in sexual promiscuity. Identifying and addressing these impacts with the help of a mental health professional can be beneficial.

Effects in Childhood

Sibling abuse can result in aggression, anxiety, depression, and difficulties forming trusting relationships. Victims may also demonstrate behavioral problems, such as acting out, defiance, or withdrawal, to cope with the abuse or gain attention from adults. Additionally, they may experience physical injuries, chronic pain, or sleep disturbances.

Below are the possible impacts of sibling abuse in childhood:

• Social isolation
• Delinquency
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Conduct disorder

Effects in Adulthood

Sibling abuse can have enduring effects in adulthood, often leading to issues with trust, intimacy, and communication. Adult victims of sibling abuse may also struggle with low self-esteem and feelings of worthlessness due to the chronic mistreatment experienced in childhood. Additionally, they are more likely to develop mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD.

Below are the possible impacts of sibling abuse in adulthood:

• Substance use
• Depression
• Sexual promiscuity or sexual avoidance
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Codependency
• Low self-esteem
• Poor boundaries
• Avoidance of marriage
• The tendency toward abusive relationships

Can Sibling Abuse Lead to PTSD?

Experiencing ongoing physical, emotional, or sexual abuse from a sibling can have a profound and long-lasting impact on psychological well-being. Sibling abuse can create chronic feelings of fear, helplessness, and hypervigilance. These experiences can overwhelm the ability to cope and process the trauma, leading to the development of PTSD. In turn, children may struggle with intrusive memories, nightmares, avoidance behavior, and low mood.

How Parents Can Respond to Sibling Abuse

Parents should respond to suspected sibling abuse promptly and effectively. Create a safe space for the abused child to share their experiences and receive emotional support. Address the situation calmly, take immediate steps to protect the child, and establish clear boundaries to prevent future abuse. By taking a proactive and supportive approach, parents can help their children navigate sibling abuse and work toward healing and prevention.

The following are ways to respond to sibling abuse:

• Offer support/reassurance to the child/victim: When responding to sibling abuse, parents must offer support and reassurance to the victimized child. Validate their experience by acknowledging their feelings and assuring them they are not alone.
• Validate the victim’s experience: Validate their emotions and reactions. Acknowledge the harm they have endured by letting them know they are believed and supported.
• Don’t overlook or minimize cruel behavior: Parents should never minimize or overlook cruel behavior between siblings. Take every incident seriously, addressing issues as needed.
• Set clear ground rules: Set consequences for behavior to establish boundaries and promote a respectful and safe sibling relationship.
• Teach problem-solving skills: Teaching problem-solving skills equips children with the tools to navigate conflicts healthily.

What Can Parents Do to Prevent Sibling Abuse?

To prevent sibling abuse, parents can take proactive steps to create a safe and respectful family environment. Firstly, they should foster open communication and encourage empathy among their children, teaching them to treat each other with kindness and respect. Parents can also set clear expectations for behavior, establish healthy boundaries, and consistently enforce consequences for aggressive or abusive actions.

The following are ways to prevent sibling abuse:^1,3,7

• Model good conflict-solving skills: Modeling good conflict-solving skills is an effective way to prevent sibling abuse. Children are more likely to emulate these healthy behaviors in their own interactions.
• Talk to your children together and individually regularly: Spending time with your children helps foster open communication and maintain awareness of potential issues or conflicts between siblings.
• Don’t dismiss a child who claims abuse: Avoid dismissing a child who claims abuse. Take their concerns seriously, listen attentively, and provide support and validation. Ignoring their claims can discourage them from speaking up and seeking help in the future.
• Provide good adult supervision: Adult supervision is essential to prevent and intervene in sibling abuse situations. Adults should be present and actively involved in activities to reduce the chances of abuse occurring unnoticed.
• Encourage the child to share with you what happened: Listening to your child helps you gather important information and support them. Maintaining an open, non-judgmental approach will increase their willingness to confide in you.
• Remind the child they are not responsible for the abuse: Remind your child they are not responsible for the abuse. Reinforce that every child (and person) deserves respect and kindness.
• Provide comfort: Providing comfort to the child is crucial in helping them heal from sibling abuse. Offer love, support, and validation, reassuring them they are safe and valued.
• Help the child remain safe: Identify strategies to ensure their safety, such as separating them from the abusive sibling temporarily and implementing measures to prevent further harm.
• Report the abuse: Report the abuse to the appropriate authorities or child protective services. Take immediate and appropriate action to protect the safety and well-being of the child experiencing sibling abuse. Parents should thoroughly understand all the impacts of doing this.

When to Seek Professional Help

Professional guidance can help create a safe space to share vulnerabilities and process thoughts and feelings surrounding sibling abuse. Several therapy modalities are available to assist in trauma healing, including eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy (EMDR) or narrative therapy. Individuals can use an online therapist directory to find the right therapist.

Therapy for Parents

Therapy can help parents cope with having both the perpetrator and victim as children or step-children. While individual therapy is beneficial, group therapy can also foster community by sharing stories, strategies, and validation. Parent-child or family therapy can assist members in rebuilding and strengthening communication and relationships.

Therapy for the Abused Child

Play therapy can help younger children express their feelings and memories without words. As an adult, EMDR for PTSD can show them how to process their traumas and work toward post-traumatic growth. Support groups offer strength and empowerment when overcoming sibling abuse.

Therapy for the Abusive Child

Finding a therapist specializing in child-on-child sexual abuse (COCSA) can help parents identify risk factors and develop a personalized plan for preventing future abuse. Treatment comes in many approaches, from individual psychotherapy to group therapy.