Sib_lingo_iSM

To say that siblings in a family do have different traits and characteristics is now new....however, how these traits shape their character and life would be something very interesting. The good old theory, and very much reasonalbe, of its all in the "genes" holds true to a large extent, especially in adolescence and teenage years. But, as one grow, he/she views the surrounding, neighborhood, society, and world in a different angle then his/her sibling may. Again, its only the interpretation that makes one make opinion and hence affects the though process and thus the action. Many a cases could be cited where two siblings have gone on to become two very different individuals in different fields (if you talk of profession). Sometimes nurturing by parents could also leave its tail-tale signs. Biased affection towards one child could make other child/children feel neglected and jealous...again, this could have different impacts. He/she may become more independent thinker and can make on his/her own....or it may cause him/her to have negative feelings and can turn him/her into a wayward/spoilsport. How does society sees sibling rivalry/differences? Well, again one who is smart and victorious gets all the adulation and praise whereas the second-best has all the consolation; leave apart the third/fourth/finisher...Here, one who is the center of all the attention could be a good samaritan by acknowleding the efforts and commitments of his fellow siblings and make them feel motivated...but that does not happen always. Do we remember any siblings or their achievements of lets say...Prisley, Kennedy, Lincon, Luther King, Hitler, Stalin, Gandhi, etc. And what about favouratism? Haven't we heard about Oedipus Complex or Electra Complex? Too much of affection/negligence again is the concern. However, this is more a society-specific issue as in some countries it may not be that much of an influence compared to others like India. However, favouratism is something that could harness one child's potential and skills, but at the same time could supress the aspirations and dreams of other. Girl child or boy child, why they should be treated differently? Do we aim to have them when we copulate? Divorce and re-marriage again is another factor that gives this issue a new dimension. Step-siblings could gel with each other sometimes quite well, but if they are grown-ups and had not-so-happy childhood then well...it could be lots of black-n-blue marks and scratches...wailing...moaning...and crying. The remedy or should we say the right way to keep this at bay is avoid giving preference to one over other. Kids are kids, they are not medals or tropies where you can rank them according to their timings or achievements. Displaying favouratism should be avoided if it leads to cause a rift between siblings. Recognize the performance and achievements of all equally and reward so that even if they compete among themselves, it could lead them to become better individuals. Use of carrot and rod is recommended, but with a pinch of salt. Regular, healthy, and bilateral interaction should be promoted and decision-making is another thing which is an influential factor.