Full Citation

Title: Lonely Only Children? Companionship Patterns and Well-Being Among Adolescents With and Without Siblings

Citation Type: Conference Paper

Publication Year: 2019

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Abstract: This study contributes to debates over only children versus children with siblings by comparing companionship patterns and well-being among adolescents with and without siblings in the home. The sibling socialization literature suggests children without sibling interactions may be at a disadvantage, spending more time alone and experiencing worse well-being. Conversely, theories positing a quantity-quality trade-off with increasing family size suggest parents may ensure that only children have higher quality social interactions than adolescents with siblings. Using the American Time Use Survey (N = 6,177), this study shows that only children spend more time alone than children with siblings, but also more one-on-one time with parents. Additionally, only children are less stressed when alone and have less negative feelings when with peers, but have less meaningful interactions with non-household adults than do children with siblings. Only children may be more adapted to spending time alone as well as with peers.

Url: http://paa2019.populationassociation.org/uploads/190871

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Authors: Wikle, Jocelyn S; Ackert, Elizabeth; Jensen, Alexander C

Conference Name: PAA 2019

Publisher Location: Austin, TX

Data Collections: IPUMS Time Use - ATUS

Topics: Other, Work, Family, and Time

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