Sibling relationships in Dutch and immigrant families

M. Voorpostel*, J.M.D. Schans

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

This study examines differences in sibling relationships among native Dutch and immigrant groups in the Netherlands. It uses a large national dataset to compare adult sibling relationships among Moroccan, Turkish, Caribbean and native Dutch groups, focusing on the varying importance of gender composition and age structure for the sibling relationship in the ethnic minority groups and the native Dutch families. Results show that, on average, ethnic minorities in the Netherlands have more involved sibling relationships in adulthood, with more contact, more emotional support, practical support (except Turks and Antilleans), a higher relationship quality, but also more conflict (among the Turks and Antilleans) compared to the Dutch. Gender constellation and hierarchical position were not of equal influence in all groups, although no clear patterns emerged.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)2027-2047
Number of pages21
JournalEthnic and Racial Studies
Volume34
Issue number12
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 2011

Keywords

  • ADULTHOOD
  • BIRTH-ORDER
  • Caribbean
  • Family
  • Muslims
  • NETHERLANDS
  • ORIGIN
  • PERCEPTIONS
  • SOLIDARITY
  • SUPPORT
  • gender
  • sample surveys
  • the Netherlands

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