Ask Alice: The Impact of Birth Order and Family Roles on Sibling Dynamics

This episode of Ask Alice combines Biblical wisdom with practical help for families who are spending A LOT of time together. Alice likens families to ecosystems; when every part is healthy, the whole system thrives. But we live in a fallen world, and that means sibling squabbles and strife are inevitable, starting in Genesis 4. Alice takes questions from parents, discussing what parents need to know about sibling relationships. She draws on family systems therapy to demonstrate the roles our kids come to play in families (the Hero, the Scapegoat, the Mascot, to name a few), and discusses the impact of birth order as well. She also gives concrete advice about how parents can help their children value and appreciate each other while they are still in the home together. See also: Summertime Blues: Sibling Love- or Lack Thereof by Katie Polski Sanctification By Sibling: Seven Encouragements for the Parent Who Love Them by Anna Meade Harris A Gospel Vision for Helping Your Students Love Their Siblings by Chelsea Kingston Erickson This podcast is made available to you by the Rooted Ministry for educational purposes only, not to provide specific therapeutic advice. The views expressed are the personal perspectives of the author and do not represent the views of all counselors or the profession. This podcast does not create a counselor-client relationship and should not be used as a substitute for competent therapeutic counsel from a licensed professional in your state. Hosted by: Danny Kwon, author of Teenagers and Mental Health; Becca Heck, M. Div. from Reformed Theological Seminary; Isaiah Marshall, Rooted's Director of Ministry Development; and Josh Hussung, M. Div. in Pastor Studies from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.