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Children with disabilities or mental illnesses may behave aggressively and harm their siblings.

Parents may struggle to meet each child’s needs and provide a safe environment.

Practical tips can help reduce sibling harm, restore family calm, and instill healthy coping skills.

About 20 percent of children in the U.S. have been diagnosed with a mental, emotional, or behavioral disorder, and these conditions become more common as children age. Many of these children are part of families with multiple children, and parents are challenged to balance each child’s individual needs while supporting their sibling relationships.

In families with a child with a disability or mental health problems, siblings can share a positive relationship, even when the disability or disorder is severe. Warm sibling relationships are important for mental health across the lifespan and for a calm family atmosphere. Sometimes, however, sibling relationships are more challenging, and parents need help supporting their children and keeping them safe.

Children with mental and behavioral disorders and intellectual disabilities can lash out or behave aggressively toward their siblings, sometimes resulting in harm. This may be due to quickly changing or lingering moods. Parents may see their child, when frustrated, reacting with anger to situations or people, leading to aggressive behavior. Children may also believe they are justified in resorting to harmful behavior to resolve disagreements.

Being on the receiving end of these behaviors, especially if they are chronic or unpredictable, can leave siblings feeling anxious and fearful. In some families, a sibling may be the sole target of their........

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