An analysis of the sibling relationship in adulthood. Polish adaptation of STQ-Now

Abstract

SummaryAim: The main aim was to develop a Polish version of the STQ-Now, an American questionnaire created by Stewart and colleagues to evaluate the current sibling relationship. Method:The sample of 416 adults, 18 to 36 years old, completed a survey that consisted of a sociodemographic form, the STQ-Now and one of three questionnaires: the ASRQ, the SWS or the UCLA. Results:The five-factor structure of the STQ-Now was validated using confirmatory factor analysis, however, because of the low level of reliability of one of the scales (Longing) some changes were introduced: items included in Longing were distributed between Mutuality and Apathy and 7 items from Criticism formed a new factor -Predominance. The new model was well-fitted to the data. The internal consistency of all scales was high (Cronbach's α 0.719 to 0.935). The Pearson correlation coefficients for STQ-Now and ASRQ, SWS and UCLA showed a satisfactory level of concurrent and discriminant validity.

The role of family communication in shaping the quality of adult sibling interpersonal relationships and the opinions about the social world

“…Lack of agreement in the sibling subsystem may reduce the ability to solve problems in a constructive way and inhibits the creation of proper communication patterns (Walęcka-Matyja, 2018). The obtained results of the research on correlations between the factor of conflict and the psychosocial functioning of adult siblings correspond with the findings obtained by the researchers so far (Capodieci, 2006;Szymańska, 2016).…”

“…The way how family members, including siblings, communicate with each other is related to the development of specific types of interpersonal relationships. In the sibling subsystem, there are relationships based on kindness and friendship (Warmth, Mutuality), connected with conflict and hostility (Conflict, Criticism), connected with a struggle for power (Domination), related to competition and jealousy between siblings (Rivalry, Parental Favouritism) as well as relationships showing lack of interest in the siblings (Indifference) (Szymańska, 2016;Walęcka-Matyja, 2016). It should be stressed that the very nature of sibling interpersonal relationships refers to the fact that it is ambivalent.…”

“…The respondent gives their answer on a five-point Likert scale. The STQ-Now Questionnaire has satisfactory psychometric properties (Cronbach's α 0.719-0.935), enabling its application in scientific research in the Polish population (Szymańska, 2016).…”

The role of siblings in the process of forming life satisfaction among young adults – moderating function of gender

“…Knowing the importance of life satisfaction for human daily functioning, it is crucial to foster and maintain its high level in adulthood, especially the early phase. Studies show that young adults are at special risk of mental disorder (Szafraniec 2011) and need additional support to ease their passage into a new life period. Unfortunately, it appears that they are increasingly subject to discomfort, anxiety and other mental problems during this period: Stallman (2010) reports that more than 80% of students declared elevated levels of distress, nearly one-fifth reported symptoms of serious mental illness, and almost two-thirds reported mild or moderate issues.…”

Young adults’ sibling relationships: Italian adaptation and validation of the Lifespan Sibling Relationship Scale

“…Thirdly, research has showed that in middle/later adulthood and in old-age sibling, ties are characterized by a stabilization of contact between siblings, as well as by an increase in giving/receiving help, and of levels of reciprocal preoccupation and emotional support (e.g., Avioli, 1989; Cicirelli, 1995; Lu, 2007; Szymańska, 2016; Van Volkom, 2006; Van Volkom, Machiz, & Reich, 2011; White, 2001; Whiteman et al, 2011). In particular, there is a general correlation between an increase in social companionship and emotional support and a decrease in instrumental support (e.g., Lu, 2007; Scharf et al, 2005).…”