Adult Sibling Rivalry
The words “sibling rivalry” conjure
images of sparring children and teens, but for
some families, childhood rivalries continue well
into adulthood. Letting go of painful comparisons
and past arguments can be a tough challenge to
surmount, as today’s guests know all too
well. Read their stories below:
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After ten years of silence, Kathleen is hoping
to finally break the ice and long-standing rivalry
with her brother John. While growing up, Kathleen
believed that her parents viewed John as the
golden child and felt unloved as a result. She
also thinks that John has turned against her
because of her sexual and racial preferences
and wants him to accept her for who she is. On
the flip side, John wants Kathleen to stop holding
on to the past so tightly and admit that she
has wronged him as well. Video
Clip: Kathleen’s
daughter Amber proves the voice of reason. Larry
suggested that Kathleen and John write each other
letters with all of their feelings and opinions
so that they can fully say everything that need
to express and move on.
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19-year-old
Malencia says that she resents the way 25-year-old
Malisha is constantly mothering her and giving
unsolicited advice. After a comment their mother
Zoe once made about wishing Malencia was more
like Malisha, Malencia has always felt stuck
in her sister’s shadow. She now hopes to
break free and make her own decisions without
being judged by Malisha and Zoe. Malencia admits
having nurturing tendencies toward Malisha but
says she only looks out for her out of love.
Quick Clicks
Be on the Show: Is your relationship with your
brother or sister less than loving? Share
your story with us.
Advice Archive: If you’re
dealing with sibling rivalry in your adult life,
consult these
helpful tips from the Forever Families initiative. |