Prevalence of Parent-Sibling Rivalries and Narcissism in Young Adults of Pakistan

Abstract

Background. The present study explored the relationships between parental rivalry, siblings conflict and narcissism among young Pakistani adults.

Method. In a correlational research design 147 young men and 154 young women (N = 301) ranging in age from 19 to 40 years (M = 24.50, SD = 4.23) from different cities of Punjab completed a demographic sheet, Adult Sibling Relationship Questionnaire-Short (Lanthier et al., 2001a; 2001b) and Narcissistic Personality Inventory (Raskin & Terry, 1988).

Results. The results indicated sibling conflict was influenced by parental rivalry and narcissism. We believe a positive association between sibling conflict and parental rivalry (maternal and paternal) and narcissism suggested this influence. Results revealed parental rivalry and narcissism were stronger in joint than in nuclear families and in families where parents were separated or divorced. Sibling conflict was greater in nuclear than joint families because of parental favoritism. Parental rivalry was higher in females than males.

Conclusion.  The result provides insight into the dynamics within the context of Pakistani families shedding light on the importance of how parental different treatment affects siblings relationships. Further research and interventions in this area can potentially enhance the family relationship and explore additional variables to deepen the understanding of complex dynamics within the families.