Sibling rivalry, though often tiring for parents, can have long-term benefits for children, according to research from the University of Cambridge’s Centre for Family Research. 
The study found that childhood disputes between siblings can boost social skills, vocabulary, and overall development, with particular advantages for the second-born child.
Professor Claire Hughes, a co-author of the study, noted that these conflicts help children develop essential social skills. Second-born siblings, in particular, tend to perform better in tests and exhibit greater social aptitude later in life.
The research, which tracked 140 children over five years, also highlighted that while moderate conflict is beneficial, persistent rivalry can lead to behavioral problems.