Q&A for How to Deal With Big Sisters

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  • Question
    What if your older sister is so mad that she doesn't even want to look at you?
    Community Answer
    In a case like that, it's best to give her some time and space. You won't be able to have a productive conversation when she's that angry, so let her cool off before you try again.
  • Question
    What if your sister is very sarcastic and won't listen?
    Community Answer
    It can be very frustrating when it feels like your sister belittles your feelings and doesn't listen to what you have to say. In that case, it's probably best to have your parents or someone else that you trust moderate between the two of you to increase the chances that your sister will listen.
  • Question
    How can I stop my sister from telling me what to do?
    Community Answer
    If your sister is routinely bossing you around, it's probably something that you should discuss with your parents. Sometimes, they may leave her in charge when they're not home, which means that you should listen to her. However, if she's telling you what to do even when they're around, they should make it clear to her that they make the rules for the house, not her.
  • Question
    What if your older sister yells at you for no reason?
    Community Answer
    Even when it doesn't seem like it, there's almost always a reason why your sister is yelling at you. The thing to keep in mind, though, is that it might not have anything to do with you. For example, she might get a bad grade on a test or have a fight with a friend, and take out her frustration on you. Try to talk to her and see if she'll open up about why she's so upset.
  • Question
    What if you're home alone and it's just you and your sister?
    Community Answer
    It's very important that your parents establish who's in charge when you two are left alone. If they tell you that you must listen to your sister, then you should try to do what she says. If she abuses her power by being mean to you, calmly tell your parents about it, so they can re-evaluate whether she should be left in charge.
  • Question
    What if my sister is really tired and she is very mean to me when she is?
    Community Answer
    If there are situations where you know your sister is difficult to be around, such as when she's tired, do your best to avoid being around her at those times.
  • Question
    What if your parents talk to her every day about this issue and she keeps being mean?
    Community Answer
    Ask your parents to establish clear consequences for your sister's behavior. For example, if she calls you names, she won't be able to watch her favorite show that night. If your sister knows that she'll have to pay for her bad behavior, she should be more likely to stop.
  • Question
    Will being funny make your sister like you more?
    Community Answer
    It depends on your sister's personality, but finding ways to bond with your sister is definitely a good way to strengthen your relationship. Try to find ways to have fun with her -- if telling her jokes does the trick, keep it up.
  • Question
    My sister never behaves nice with me. She always says mean things to me which hurt my heart. What shall I do?
    Community Answer
    Make sure that you explain to her exactly how much her behavior and words hurt you. If she continues to be mean to you, it may be time to talk to your parents.
  • Question
    What if your parents don't care that your older sister bothers you?
    Community Answer
    If you've honestly tried talking to your parents and they won't intervene between you and your sister, you may want to talk to another trusted adult in your life, such as a grandparent or school counselor. They can hopefully talk to your parents on your behalf, so they realize how serious the situation with your sister is.
  • Question
    How do take revenge on your older sister?
    Community Answer
    Your goal should never being getting revenge. That will only start a vicious cycle, where she tries to get back at your next, and then you do it to her again, and so on. Work to resolve your conflicts, so it's not necessary to take revenge.
  • Question
    Why do older sisters try to be annoying?
    Community Answer
    If your older sister is frequently doing things to tease or annoy you, there may be something going on in her life that she's upset about. Try to talk to her and see if she's willing to open up to you about it.
  • Question
    My parents won’t let my sister and I get separate bedrooms, (we both want them) no matter what we do or how we ask them. What do I do?
    Community Answer
    Split your bedroom in half, one side for your sister and the other for you. If you can, you could get a curtain to separate the halves.
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