Siblings’ Perception of Parental Neglectful Behaviors

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to study differences in perceived parental neglectful behaviors between siblings from a child’s perspective. The data were collected using the Multidimensional Neglectful Behavior Scales (MNBS) questionnaire from 158 sibling pairs in grades 4, 5, and 6 who attended the same elementary schools. Younger sibling experienced emotional neglect bytheir parents significantly more than older siblings. Same gender sibling pairs and older brother-younger sister pairs perceived their parental neglectful behaviors in a similar manner. However older sister-younger brother pairs showed that the younger brother perceived significantly moreneglect than his older sister. This study clearly illustrated that siblings' perceptions of their parents' neglectful behaviors exists differently within a family contrary to previous studies which have shown that siblings' perception of parental neglectful behaviors are similar. The results suggest that the younger brother in mixed-gender sibling pairs are far more likely to experience neglect than any other sibling. Thus, even though siblings can be at equal risk in experiencing parental neglect, the effects can vary depending on the birth order.