Beyond the Bickering: Examining Event, Victim, and Offender Characteristics for Sibling Abuse Incidents in Oregon

Sibling violence (SV) is the most prevalent form of intrafamilial and domestic violence, yet it remains underrecognized and lacks the systematic attention given to other forms of family violence. Often minimized or misclassified as typical sibling rivalry, SV can inflict serious and lasting physical, emotional, and psychological harm on its victims. This study explores the characteristics of sibling violence incidents reported to law enforcement in Oregon between 2016 and 2023, using data from the National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS). Through an analysis of 5,793 single-victim, single-offender incidents, the research examines demographic patterns among victims and offenders, incident dynamics, and typological distinctions between juvenile and adult cases. Findings reveal that most SV incidents involved physical assault, occurred in residential settings, and were perpetrated by male siblings. Juvenile victims were disproportionately represented in sexual offenses, while adult victims experienced more physical assaults. The study also highlights disparities by race and ethnicity and underscores the limitations of current legal and social frameworks in addressing sibling violence. By proposing a detailed typology of SV incidents, this research advocates for a reframing of sibling abuse as a serious public health issue requiring focused policy, legal, and clinical interventions.