The Daily The Secret Power of Siblings
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May 13, 2025 
Susan Dominus, a staff writer for The New York Times Magazine and author of "The Family Dynamic," dives into the fascinating world of sibling influence. She discusses how siblings significantly shape personal growth and career paths, often more than parents. Through captivating examples like the unique dynamics of the Groff family and the Chen siblings' supportive relationships, Dominus reveals how these bonds can drive success. She also touches on the concept of differentiation, showing how siblings help each other thrive amidst competition.
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Groff Siblings’ Differentiation Path
- The Groff siblings differentiated by pursuing distinct, high-achieving careers in writing, sports, and healthcare entrepreneurship.
- The youngest consciously chose sports to excel where her siblings weren't focused, highlighting unconscious sibling influence.
Sibling Birthorder and Strengths
- Oldest siblings tend to have a cognitive advantage with better academic performance than younger siblings.
- Younger siblings often excel in sports, seeking niches where they can stand out relative to older siblings.
Chen Siblings’ Spillover Success
- The Chen siblings exemplify the spillover effect, where older siblings' success boosts younger siblings academically and athletically.
- They collaborate closely, sharing knowledge and supporting each other's growth in school and sports.
