Experts say conflicts more often occur in siblings of the same sex born fewer than three years apart. Obviously, when they are doing the same things, the opportunity for those conflicts rises. Brad and Joe's rivalry was further fueled by their parents. They were aggressive, hard- driving professionals who brought those attitudes to their sports activities. They played to win and expected their sons to do the same.
Parents create competition by rewarding winners and stressing competition rather than cooperation.
WHAT TO DO Don't compare. It's natural for kids to compare themselves, and comparison is particularly easy in sports, where everyone is keeping score. As a parent, you have to focus on your child as an individual, not in relation to a brother or sister. The child who is on the unfavorable side of the comparison feels diminished, devalued, and resentful. Playing sports can provide kids with years of enjoyment and healthy activity if parents encourage them to learn skills and have fun.