The sibling relationship under China’s universal two-child policy: exploring the experiences of the first-born child in two-child families with a large age gap

The implementation of China’s universal two-child policy in 2016 precipitated a notable social phenomenon: the rise of two-child families with substantial age gaps between siblings. This study investigates the sibling relationships in such families, drawing on data from 33 semi-structured interviews with first-born children. Employing thematic analysis, the research uncovers varied responses among first-borns to the arrival of a younger sibling. The findings reveal their adjustment to altered family dynamics and the evolving nature of sibling interactions. This study also highlights that while traditional Chinese values of familial duty persistently influence these dynamics, a trend towards individualisation within Chinese society is enabling first-borns to redefine their roles based on personal choice rather than obligation. This research enriches the understanding of how recent policy changes impact family dynamics and sibling relationships in contemporary Chinese society, illustrating a complex interplay between enduring cultural traditions and emerging modern values.