The Influence and Implications of Sibling Relationships on Adoptees’ Resilience

Emotional and behavioral issues among adopted individuals are common, suggesting the need for more research pertaining to resilience factors. Adoptees can face adverse childhood experiences and subsequent internalizing and externalizing issues. Research has supported the notion that healthy sibling relationships, both biological and adoptive, may act as a protective factor for adopted individuals. Counselors may improve their therapeutic capabilities with adopted child clients by utilizing attachment-based and narrative therapies with adoptive siblings and adoptive parents. In support of improving the long-term outcomes of adopted individuals’ and their families’ lives, this article provides an in-depth literature review concerning (1) definitions of adoption and adoption-related terms, (2) the importance of sibling relationships, (3) the impact of biological sibling relationships on adoptees, (4) the impact of adoptive sibling relationships on adoptees, and (5) empirically supported counseling approaches. Implications for counselors and direction for future research are also discussed.