The role of perceived parental differential treatment, sibling relationship, and peer relationships for children with and without siblings in China

Thesis

Sibling relationships play a crucial role in adolescent development, yet research on this topic within the Chinese context remains scarce, primarily due to China’s long-lasting onechild policy. The unique cultural and historical factors in China suggest that insights from Western sibling studies may not be directly applicable, highlighting the need for studies focused specifically on Chinese sibling dynamics. This study aims to explore: (1) the impact of perceived paternal versus maternal differential treatment on the quality of sibling relationships among Chinese adolescents; (2) the influence of sibling relationship quality on peer relationships; and (3) differences in peer relationships between children with and without siblings.

A total of 516 Chinese primary school students were recruited for the study (aged 9-13, M=11 years and 8 months, SD=0.71, 51.9% boys), with 74.8% of them having siblings. Data were collected through quantitative questionnaires assessing perceived parental differential treatment, sibling relationship quality, and peer relationships. Participants without siblings were only assessed on peer relationships.

The findings revealed that perceived maternal favouritism was associated with greater sibling warmth and reduced sibling conflict, while higher levels of perceived differential treatment, whether from mothers or fathers, correlated with poorer sibling relationships, characterized by more sibling conflict and less sibling warmth. Furthermore, sibling warmth was positively and significantly related to the quality of peer relationships. Variations in these relationships were observed based on sibling-gender composition. Notably, there were no significant differences in peer relationships between children with and without siblings, nor were there gender differences.

This study offers critical insights into the influence of parental differential treatment on sibling and peer relationships among Chinese adolescents, emphasizing the importance of cultural context. These findings have practical implications for parents, educators, and policymakers aiming to foster family harmony and support adolescent development.

Authors: Yiman, Y

• DOI: 10.5287/ora-kz6qyqo15
• Type of award: MSc taught course
• Level of award: Masters
• Awarding institution: University of Oxford
• Language: English
• Keywords: quantitative research; peer relationship; CDE; perceived parental differential treatment; CDE2024; sibling relationship; chinese adolescents
• Subjects: Education; Peer pressure in adolescence; Quantitative research; Chinese; Parent and child; Siblings