The Overlooked Dynamics of Sibling Violence: Sociological Perspectives and Intervention Strategies

Authors

Rowland Edet, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow

Document Type

Article

Date of this Version

2025

Citation

The Journal of Social Encounters (2025) 9(1): 196-210

doi: 10.69755/2995-2212.1340

Also available at: https://digitalcommons.csbsju.edu/social_encounters/vol9/iss1/27

Comments

Copyright 2025, Rowland Edet. Open access

License: Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 International (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International)

Abstract

Sibling violence (SV) represents a pervasive yet underexplored dimension of family violence, encompassing physical, emotional, and psychological abuse. This paper critically examines the intersection of gender dynamics, societal norms, and family structures in shaping SV behaviors. Using social learning theory (SLT) as a foundational framework, the analysis explores how gendered expectations and traditional roles influence the prevalence and forms of aggression, with boys more likely to exhibit overt physical aggression and girls engaging in relational aggression. The paper critiques the deterministic tendencies of SLT, highlighting the agency of individuals in rejecting modeled behaviors, and incorporates intersectionality to address the interplay of social identities such as race, class, and socioeconomic status in SV dynamics. Findings emphasize that parental responses, sibling compositions, and external role models significantly affect how aggression is learned and internalized. The paper calls for longitudinal, mixed-methods research to further investigate these relationships and advocates for culturally sensitive, gender-informed interventions to mitigate the intergenerational transmission of violence. By incorporating a nuanced understanding of gender, intersectionality, and individual agency, this study provides actionable insights for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers aiming to foster healthier sibling relationships.