MARCH: Siblings, Rivalry, Camaraderie, and Being an Only Child
Whether shaped by the camaraderie of siblings or the solitude of being an only child, our family systems mold us into the individuals we become. Family systems theory is a psychological approach that views a family as a complex and interconnected system of individuals, each with their own unique needs, roles, and relationships. This theory emphasizes that a change in one family member's behavior or emotional state will affect the entire family system.
In this conversation, explore the merits and challenges of having siblings or of being an only child. The discussion questions are framed to explore your family of origin. You can also reflect on the family you are raising. Take a few minutes before this conversation for a meditation on compassion for ourselves and family members, pondering the difference between softening and hardening our hearts.
Group Check-in: Who does/doesn’t have siblings? Any sibling substitutes, like a cousin or best friend? Ages and names?
Not all siblings hit it off. Describe the rivalry-camaraderie quotient in your sibling relationships over the years.
How do you think about a sibling who has died or distanced themselves from the family? Have your feelings changed over time?
What was your experience like as an only child and how did it impact your relationships with peers?
What did you experience as some of the benefits of being an only child?
If you could change one thing about your family of origin, what would you change?
Takeaways.