Sibling Resentments and Alliances during the Parent Care Years: Implications for Social Work Practice

Abstract

Do many hands make lighter work for siblings caring for aging parents? Anchored in theoretical concepts of filial responsibility and equity, this article is an in-depth examination of tensions between caregiving siblings in two families. This article contributes understandings about ways siblings may differ in their views of parent care and how resentments arising from these differences incline siblings to seek support by aligning with one or more other siblings. The purpose of this examination is to illuminate complex sibling relationships that can impact parent care, and to provoke reflection on social work practices for navigating difficult sibling relationships and promoting high quality care for aging parents. Questions are raised for social workers who may find themselves at the center of competing instructions from siblings who are each proclaiming dedication to “what's best for mom.”

Keywords::

• Siblings
• parent care
• alliances
• resentments
• quality of care