Bullying is a major concern that spans age and settings, sparing no space from its reach. Usually, bullying is connected with school and online spaces. We often forget other bullying behaviors like sibling bullying and abuse. In this article, we will explore the causes behind sibling bullying, its diverse forms, red flags to pay attention to, and most importantly, effective strategies for parents to both avert and tackle such conduct. Common Reasons for Sibling Bullying and Abuse - Jealousy and competition - Power imbalance - Modeling behavior - Lack of communication skills - Copying parental behavior - Seeking attention - Personal insecurities - Unresolved conflicts - External stressors. Read more: Bullying in School: How to Protect Children and Deal with the Issue Types of Sibling Bullying and Abuse Physical Bullying  Physical bullying entails employing force or aggression to intimidate or cause harm to a sibling. This can include hitting, pushing, kicking, or any other physical actions intended to exert control or cause physical pain. Psychological Bullying  Psychological bullying is a subtle yet damaging form of abuse where one sibling manipulates another's emotions, self-esteem, and perceptions. This can involve tactics like spreading rumors, exclusion, and using psychological pressure to gain control or dominance. Sexual Bullying  Sexual bullying involves inappropriate and coercive behaviors of a sexual nature between siblings. This can encompass unwanted advances, comments, or actions that create a hostile environment, causing emotional distress and violating personal boundaries. Read more: How to Raise a Caring, Empathetic and Compassionate Child Symptoms of Sibling Bullying and Abuse - Unexplained marks or bruises - Frequent feelings of unease - Marks from self-harm or expressing thoughts of self-harm - Decline in school performance - Fear or anxiety around a particular sibling - Rapid fluctuations due to stress - Refusal to be alone with the sibling - Low self-esteem - Running away from home - Sleep disturbances or changes in sleep patterns - Inappropriate sexual behavior. Read more: Common Sleep Problems in Children: Causes, Symptoms, Ways to Help Effects of Sibling Bullying and Abuse on Children’s Mental Health - Diminished confidence and self-worth - Triggering depression - Anxiety due to fear - Social isolation - Trust issues - Internalized aggression  - Decline in concentration and grades - Potential engagement in self-destructive behavior - Eating disorders - Effects can extend into adulthood. Read more: 15 Gift Ideas for a Newborn Baby  How Parents can Protect Children from Sibling Bullying and Abuse Set Clear Boundaries  Try to establish firm rules that unequivocally condemn any form of aggressive behavior or bullying between siblings. Communicate consequences for crossing these boundaries, reinforcing the importance of respect and kindness. Positive Reinforcement  Parents should acknowledge and reward instances of respectful interactions and cooperation between siblings. This encourages a culture of kindness and reinforces the benefits of treating each other with respect. Model Respectful Behavior  It is important to demonstrate kindness, empathy, and respectful communication in parents' interactions with others, including their children. Children often learn by example, and seeing respectful behavior from adults sets a powerful precedent for sibling interactions. Read more: How physical punishment affects children and alternative ways to discipline them Individual Attention Parents should spend quality time with each child. This helps build strong bonds and reduces feelings of rivalry. It also fosters a sense of belonging, decreasing the likelihood of resorting to bullying for attention.