Objective: The present study examines sibling conflict across two domains and their associations with externalizing behaviors (discussed as problem behavior in this article) 1 year later. Background: The close-natured relationship of siblings often leads to sibling conflict. Previous research has found that sibling conflict can be categorized into the following two content domains: invasion of personal (IP) and equality and fairness (EF). These domains of conflict are differential predictors of adolescent adjustment problems, particularly internalizing problems; however, less is known about the link between specific domains of conflict and problem behavior. Method: Using Actor Partner Interdependence Modeling, purposive sampling was conducted to recruit a sample of 145 sibling dyads (N = 290) adolescents in 8th, 10th, or 12th grades with a sibling no more than 4 years

Given the uniqueness of siblings, it is important to consider the presence and role of relational aggression within the sibling relationship. Due to the time spent together and the information disclosed between siblings, during conflict, such information could be used in threatening or relationally aggressive ways. Relationally aggressive actions do not pose a threat to end the sibling relationship, making it a safe relationship to practice such strategies. While parents are likely to be aware of physical aggression between siblings, and attempt to stop it, relational aggression may be difficult for parents to catch and address, reinforcing its effectiveness as a strategy of control. This chapter describes the developmental course of relational aggression within the sibling relationship, as well as associations between relational aggression in the sibling relationship and relationships with others. Finally, we highlight the conclusions and limitations of this research and offer ideas for future research directions.

Adolescence is a developmental time period of self-exploration and self-discovery for that brings about change to family processes and interactions. Conflict during this time can be interpreted as a mechanism that reconceptionalizes how the family as a system operates. In light of research supporting the increase in parent-adolescent conflict and the importance of sibling relationship qualities during adolescence, the literature is unclear about how these two aspects of family interactions are associated with each other and their implications within the family system. Therefore, the present study examined the interconnectedness of family subsystems and changes in family processes and dynamics in adolescence over time. The present study found that sibling relationship quality influenced the trajectory of parent-adolescent conflict over time. Specifically, spillover effects and compensation effects were found in both adolescent-reported and mother-reported adolescent conflict. Importantly, the context of sibling gender composition revealed that spillover and compensation effects were stronger for same-sex siblings than for mixed-sex siblings. The results showcase the importance of examining multiple familial relationships during adolescent development and illustrate how family interactions and processes are interconnected.