Resources

Need Help or Support?

This topic may bring up unexpected or challenging feelings. If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available.

Here you will find a list of organizations, primarily Canadian, that provide valuable resources and information, including mental health information, followed by province-specific services to help you access the support you need, wherever you are in Canada.

Note: Many of these are general supports for children, youth and families; most do not indicate support for those impacted by sibling abuse specifically. However, most organizations should be knowledgeable about sibling abuse and are able to provide assistance.

Need Information?

Below you will find a range of information for survivors/harmed individuals, perpetrators/harmers, parents, caretakers, family members, friends, students or professionals working with or interacting with kids and families. Most are specific to siblings, sibling aggression and abuse; others may focus on parenting, family violence, trauma, and more.

References Note:

Much of the information found on this website has been compiled from select resources below. Credit has been given when used directly.

Please take care of yourself ~ Know you are not alone

Personal Supports

National

  • Kids Help Phone

    Call: 1-800-668-6868
    Text (Kids/Youth) : 686868
    text (Adults): 74174

    Kids Help Phone is Canada’s 24/7 phone, text, and chat support service. It provides free, confidential, and multilingual support to children and youth across the country. Young people can reach out at any time to ask questions, talk through concerns, or share their thoughts and feelings, whether the issue feels big or small.

  • Suicide Crisis Helpline

    Call: 988
    Text: 988

    Suicide Crisis Helpline is Canada’s 24/7 crisis support service for people experiencing thoughts of suicide or emotional distress. It offers free, confidential support by phone and text, providing immediate, compassionate assistance and connection to trained responders at any time, day or night.

  • Child and Youth Advocacy Centres of Canada (CYACC)

    Child and Youth Advocacy Centres of Canada (CYACC) is the national organization that supports and strengthens local Child and Youth Advocacy Centres across Canada. CYACs coordinate supports and services for children and youth who have experienced abuse, as well as their families. They bring together medical, mental health, child protection, police, and legal services in one trauma informed, child friendly setting to support assessment, care, and navigation of these systems.

    Note: For direct support, please contact a provincial or local Child and Youth Advocacy Centre. Links and contact information are provided in each provincial section below.

  • Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA)

    Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) is the national organization that supports and strengthens local CMHA branches across Canada. Local branches provide community‑based mental health services and supports, helping individuals and families access care, resources, and programs that promote mental health, recovery, and resilience. CMHA also works to advance education, advocacy, research, and policy to improve mental health systems nationwide.

    Note: For direct support, please contact a provincial or local CMHA branch. Links and contact information are provided in each provincial section below.

  • At Home - Mental Health Commission of Canada

    The Mental Health Commission of Canada offers many tools and guidelines on a wide range of mental health topics, including peer support, caregiving, and recovery (see Public Resources).

  • “Psychology Works” Fact Sheets

    The Canadian Psychological Association provides helpful downloadable information sheets on a variety of mental health topics.

  • Hope for Wellness Helpline

    Call: 1-855-242-3310

    Hope for Wellness Helpline is available 24/7 to all Indigenous people across Canada for immediate emotional support, crisis intervention, and culturally safe counselling related to abuse, trauma, and other distressing experiences. Telephone and online chat support is offered in English, French, and, upon request, Cree, Ojibway (Anishinaabemowin), and Inuktitut.

  • Little Warriors

    Call: (780) 922‑9010
    Toll‑free:1‑855‑922‑9010

    Little Warriors is a Canadian charity based in Alberta that helps children, teens, and families affected by child sexual abuse. They offer trauma‑informed treatment programs, online support, and prevention workshops, with some workshops available across Canada.

  • FamilySmart

    Call: (604) 878-3400
    Toll Free: 1-855-887-8004

    FamilySmart offers free peer support for parents and caregivers dealing with family conflict, trauma, or a child or youth in distress. They can help families affected by sibling abuse by listening, helping caregivers understand what is happening, and guiding them toward appropriate mental health and family support services.

  • American Psychological Association

    The American Psychological Association provides information, links and resources on a variety of mental health topics (see TOPICS).

Provincial

  • Family Violence

    Call: 310-1818
    Text: 310-1818

    Help and financial supports for Albertans fleeing domestic or intimate partner violence, and resources for prevention.

  • Abuse helpline

    Call:  1-855-443-5722

    Alberta government phoneline for residents of Alberta who are experiencing abuse or neglect, or who suspect an adult or child is being abused or neglected.

  • Alberta Child Advocacy Centres

    Child Advocacy Centres of Alberta provide trauma‑informed support for children, youth, and families who have experienced abuse, coordinating medical, mental health, child protection, police, and legal services. Multiple centres operate across the province. Visit their website for locations and contact information.

Alberta

  • Helpline For Children

    If you are a child or youth: 310-1234
    Reporting child abuse: 1-800-663-9122

    Helpline for Children is a free, confidential service in British Columbia for children and youth who need support, information, or someone to talk to about abuse, safety, or other concerns. It connects young people with trained responders who can listen, provide guidance, and help them figure out next steps.

  • Youth Against Violence Line (YAVL)

    Call: 1-800-680-4264

    A confidential, 24/7 multilingual support line for anyone concerned about violence or safety, encouraging youth and adults to reach out for help.

  • BC Network of Child and Youth Advocacy Centres

    Child and Youth Advocacy Centres are collaborative, trauma‑informed services that provide a coordinated response to child abuse and crimes against children and youth. They connect children, youth, and families with multidisciplinary supports, including law enforcement, child protection, medical care, mental health services, and victim advocacy, in a safe and child‑friendly environment.

British Columbia

  • Stop The Violence

    Call: 1-877-977-0007

    Stop The Violence is a Manitoba government resource that supports individuals and families affected by family or gender‑based violence. It offers practical guidance on recognizing abuse, creating safety plans, and accessing local services and crisis support throughout the province.

  • Child and Family Services

    Call: 1 (866) 345-9241

    Child and Family Services is a Government of Manitoba program that helps protect children and support families when there are concerns about a child’s safety or well‑being. They assess reports of abuse or neglect, provide family support services, and work to ensure children grow up in safe, stable environments. This service is for children, youth, and families in Manitoba who need protection or help with family challenges.

  • Toba Centre for Children and Youth

    Call: (204) 944‑1405

    Toba Centre for Children and Youth is a child advocacy centre in Manitoba that supports children, youth, and families affected by physical or sexual abuse or violence. The centre uses a coordinated, trauma‑informed approach with law enforcement, child protection, medical, mental health, and victim support professionals to provide assessment, support, and healing services in a child‑friendly environment.

Manitoba

  • Support Services for Victims of Abuse

    Call: (506) 453-8126
    Toll Free: 1-877-253-0266

    Support Services for Victims of Abuse is a Government of New Brunswick program that connects people affected by abuse with supports such as crisis intervention, counselling, safety planning, and referrals to community‑based services. It helps adults, children, and families in New Brunswick who have experienced family or gender‑based violence find the support they need.

  • Domestic Violence Association of New Brunswick

    Call: (506) 259-6007

    Domestic Violence Association of New Brunswick is a provincial non‑profit that works to prevent domestic violence and support people affected by it. They provide public education, professional training, advocacy, referrals to services, and resources for survivors, families, and the community to help reduce harm and improve access to local supports across New Brunswick.

  • Boreal Child and Youth Expertise Centre

    Call: (506) 383‑8300

    Boreal Child and Youth Expertise Centre provides coordinated support for children and youth affected by abuse and violence in New Brunswick. It offers medical, legal, and psychological services on‑site, with social workers and therapists guiding families through care, healing, and the legal process.

New Brunswick

  • Domestic Violence Help Line

    Call: 1-888-709-7090

    Domestic Violence Help Line (Newfoundland and Labrador) is a Government of NL support service that offers confidential emotional support, information, safety planning, and referrals for people experiencing domestic violence. It is available to anyone in Newfoundland and Labrador who needs help dealing with abuse or finding local services.

  • Child and Youth Advocacy Centre (North Star)

    Call: 709‑552‑9195

    The services North Star Child and Youth Advocacy Centre (CYAC) provides are essential for the well-being of children and youth who have experienced or been witnessed to abuse. North Star CYAC provides support for children/youth and their non-offending family members, right at the onset of when abuse is first suspected. Supporting in the beginning is called early intervention – it can help create the best opportunities for understanding what children and youth need to heal. Early intervention has a higher success for lowering possible adverse effects from child abuse.

Newfoundland & Labrador

  • Health and Social Services, Family Violence

    Family Violence Support Services is a Government of the Northwest Territories program offering support for individuals and families experiencing abuse. It provides safety planning, crisis intervention, and referrals to local community services across the territory.

    Contact: Visit the website for local service contacts and support options.

Northwest Territories

  • Report child abuse or neglect

    Call: 1-866-922-2434

    Report Child Abuse or Neglect is a provincial government service for reporting concerns about the safety or well-being of a child or youth under 18. It connects callers with child protection professionals who assess reports of abuse, neglect, or exposure to violence and take action to ensure a child’s safety. Reports can be made by anyone, and help is available during business hours and after hours for urgent concerns.

  • Naomi Society

    Call: (902) 863-3807

    Naomi Society is a community‑based support organization in Nova Scotia providing trauma‑informed counselling and services for women, children, adolescents, and families affected by domestic, family, intimate partner, and sexual violence. Services include confidential support, outreach, safety planning, referrals, advocacy, and access to shelter and second‑stage housing.

  • SeaStar Child and Youth Advocacy Centre

    Call: (902) 470-7357

    SeaStar Child & Youth Advocacy Centre provides coordinated, trauma-informed support for children and youth affected by abuse or violence. It brings together child protection, law enforcement, health, mental health, and justice services in a child-friendly setting to support assessment, care, and system navigation.

Nova Scotia

  • Kamatsiaqtut Nunavut Helpline

    Call: (867) 979-3333
    Toll Free: 1-800-265-3333

    Nunavut Helpline provides confidential, 24/7 support and information to people in Nunavut dealing with stress, mental health concerns, crisis situations, trauma, and family or personal difficulties, including abuse. Trained responders offer emotional support, referrals to local resources, and help connecting callers with services within the territory.

Nunavut

  • Child & Youth Advocacy Centres of Ontario

    Part of the national Child & Youth Advocacy Centres network, these centres provide coordinated, trauma-informed support for children and youth who have experienced abuse. In Ontario, eight advocacy centres offer integrated services and connections to appropriate supports. Links to each Ontario centre are provided below.

    Boost (Toronto)
    Beacon House (London)
    Koala Place (Cornwall)
    Simcoe Muskoka CYAC
    Waterloo Region CYAC
    Windsor Essex CYAC
    Kristen French CAC (Niagara)
    Nipissing CYAC (North Bay)

  • Victim Support Directory

    Call: 1-888-579-2888

    Victim Support Line (Ontario) is a 24/7 province-wide helpline that assists people affected by crime or abuse, including family and interpersonal violence. Trained responders provide information, emotional support, and referrals to local services such as counselling, safety planning, and community programs. The service is multilingual and available to victims and their families across Ontario.

  • Children’s Mental Health Ontario (CMHO)

    Call: (416) 921-2109

    CMHO is a provincial organization that connects families in Ontario with child and youth mental health services, including counselling, therapy, crisis support, and family help through a network of accredited centres across the province. For someone dealing with sibling abuse, CMHO can help find local mental health professionals and supports who understand family trauma and sibling conflict and can guide you to appropriate services for emotional support and intervention.

  • Wellness & Emotional Support for Youth online

    WES for Youth Online provides ongoing e-counselling services to Ontario youth ages 13-24 – free of charge.

    Their Vision: All young people have access to free counselling to care for their mental health.

  • Talk 4 Healing

    Call/text:1‑855‑554‑4325

    Talk4Healing is a free, 24/7 culturally grounded helpline for Indigenous women and their families in Ontario. It offers confidential support by phone, text, or online chat, providing crisis counselling, culturally sensitive advice, and referrals to local services in multiple Indigenous languages and English. Support is available wherever callers live, including urban, rural, and remote communities.

  • Knowledge Institute on Child and Youth Mental Health and Addictions

    Call: 613-737-2297

    Offers evidence-based resources and guidance to help families understand child and youth mental health, trauma, and family conflict, supporting caregivers in addressing issues like sibling abuse and connecting to appropriate supports.

  • Parents for Children’s Mental Health (PCMH)

    Call: (416) 921-2109 ext. 128

    A provincial network offering peer support and guidance for parents and caregivers navigating child and youth mental health challenges. The Family Partnership Program, led by Vicki Cochrane, provides peer support and resources to help families manage issues such as sibling conflict and family stress.

Ontario

  • Emergency Services for Victims of Family Violence

    Call: 1-800-218-2885

    This Government of Prince Edward Island page connects people affected by family violence to immediate supports, including crisis intervention, safety planning, counselling, and referrals to shelters and community services. It explains how to get urgent help and lists local contact numbers for services across the province.

  • PEI Family Violence Prevention Services

    Call: 1-800-240-9894

    FVPS provides support to people affected by family and intimate partner violence in Prince Edward Island. Services include crisis intervention, safety planning, counselling, support groups, and referrals to shelters and other community resources. FVPS works with individuals and families to help them access practical help and improve safety and well‑being.

  • Office of the Child and Youth Advocate

    Call: (902) 368‑5630
    Toll‑free: 1‑833‑368‑5630

    The Office of the Child and Youth Advocate is an independent provincial office that promotes and defends the rights and well‑being of children and youth in Prince Edward Island. It provides confidential advocacy, information, and guidance for young people and families navigating government services, and helps ensure children’s voices are heard in decisions affecting their care and support.

Prince Edward Island

  • AMI-Québec: Allies in Mental Health

    Call: 514-486-1448

     AMI-Quebec is a Montreal-based organization that provides free support, programs, education, guidance, and advocacy to help families manage the effects of mental illness experienced by children and adolescents.

  • Tel-jeunes

    Call: 1-800-263-2266
    Text: (514) 600-1002

    Tel Jeunes provides free, confidential support for teens in Quebec and their parents. Through phone, text, chat, or online forum, trained counsellors offer emotional support, information, and coping guidance on issues like stress, relationships, mental health, and questions about abuse or safety. Support is available in English and French, and the service helps connect young people and families with additional resources if needed.

  • Part of the national Child & Youth Advocacy Centres network, these centres provide coordinated, trauma-informed support for children and youth who have experienced abuse or trauma, helping families access medical, legal and psychosocial services. In Quebec there are four centres offering these services. Below are the links and names for each centre.

    Marie-Vincent Centre d’appui aux enfants et à la jeunesse (Montreal & Montérégie)

    SIAM – Services Intégrés en Abus et Maltraitance (Quebec City)

    Le CER(e)F – Centre d’expertise régional à l’enfance et à la famille (Laval)

  • Marie-Vincent Foundation

    Call: (514) 285‑0505

    The Marie‑Vincent Foundation in Montreal provides coordinated, trauma‑informed support for children and adolescents who have experienced or witnessed abuse, including sexual violence. The centre brings together medical, psychosocial, legal, and police services in one child‑friendly setting to offer assessment, treatment, and guidance for victims and their families within the Montreal region.

  • Help for victims of domestic violence

    Call: 1-800-363-9010

    Help and Support Resources for Domestic Violence provides centralized information and contacts for individuals experiencing domestic violence. It offers emergency helplines, access to shelters, counselling, and connections to local support services across the province.

  • Crime Victims Assistance Centres (CAVAC)

    Call: 1-866-532-2822

    CAVAC offers free, confidential support to survivors of sexual violence in Quebec. Services include emotional support, information on reporting options, legal and medical accompaniment, counselling, and referrals to local resources. Support is available to people of all ages and genders who have experienced sexual assault or abuse.

Quebec

  • Children Exposed to Violence

    This resource supports children and youth exposed to violence, as well as their families, by connecting them with child protection services. It provides safety planning, counselling, guidance for parents and caregivers, and referrals to local support services

    Note: For contact numbers, check the website, as different numbers are provided based on the city or region..

  • Sask Central Victim Services

    Call: (306) 385-2683

    Sask Central Victim Services provides support to people affected by crime and trauma, including victims of domestic, family, or interpersonal violence. Services include emotional support, information about rights and court processes, safety planning, crisis intervention, and referrals to community resources for ongoing help.

  • Saskatchewan Advocate for Children & Youth

    Call: 306‑933‑6700
    Toll‑free: 1‑800‑322‑7221

    The Saskatchewan Advocate for Children & Youth is an independent provincial office that supports and advocates for children and youth, providing confidential help, information, and guidance on government services while promoting their rights and well‑being.

Saskatchewan

  • Report child abuse

    Call: (867) 667-3002

    This Government of Yukon resource helps anyone report concerns about a child’s safety or well-being. It supports children and youth by connecting reports to Family and Children’s Services, where social workers assess the situation, help ensure safety, and arrange protection or family support services when needed.

  • Yukon Child Advocate Office (YCAO)

    Call: (867) 456‑5575

    The Yukon Child & Youth Advocate Office is an independent office of the Yukon Legislative Assembly that promotes and defends the rights, interests, and well‑being of children and youth under 19. It provides individual advocacy for children and youth receiving or eligible for government services, helping ensure their voices are heard in decisions affecting their care and supports.

  • Child protection unit

    Call: (867) 667‑3002
    Toll Free: 1‑800‑661‑0408

    Child Protection Unit is a government service that investigates reports of child abuse, neglect, or exposure to violence and works to ensure the safety and well-being of children and youth under 19. The unit connects families with support services, counselling, and resources, and collaborates with other professionals to provide protection, guidance, and assistance in navigating care systems.

Yukon

Information

Organizations, Websites

  • Sibling Aggression and Abuse Research and Advocacy Initiative (SAARA)

    SAARA, based at the University of New Hampshire’s Crimes Against Children Research Centre, conducts research on sibling relationships (conflict, aggression, abuse and the promotion of healthy relationships), and translates findings into practical guidance.

    SAARA’s Director, Dr. Corinna Tucker and Assistant Director, Tanya Whitworth and their team provide evidence-based bulletins, tip sheets, and research summaries for siblings, parents, and professionals. Their work is also featured in Psychology Today’s blog The Science of Siblings, where they discuss sibling dynamics, aggression and abuse, and strategies for promoting positive sibling relationships.

  • #SiblingsToo

    #SiblingsToo is a Canadian initiative dedicated to raising awareness about sibling sexual abuse. Its core feature is The #SiblingsToo Podcast, hosted by Nancy Morris who has been exploring research, expert perspectives, and survivor experiences since 2018. The project also offers resources for survivors, families, and professionals to better understand, respond to, and prevent sibling sexual abuse.

  • SiblingAbuse.ca

    SiblingAbuse.ca, created by survivor and advocate Lorene Stanwick, is a Canadian resource dedicated to raising awareness and creating a community ‘hub’ of shared stories of those with lived experience of sibling abuse.

  • 5Waves

    5Waves (Worldwide Awareness, Voice, Education & Support) is a US nonprofit founded by five women who are survivors of sibling sexual trauma or parents of affected children. The organization highlights the voices of those with lived experience, raises awareness, shares research, provides educational resources, offers peer support, and conducts workshops and presentations for survivors, families, professionals and the general public to understand, respond to, and heal from sibling sexual abuse.

  • The UK Sibling Sexual Abuse Project, led by SARSAS, is a research and awareness initiative examining the prevalence, impacts, and under-recognition of sibling sexual abuse. Several resources emerged from this project to support survivors, families, and professionals:

    SARSAS Sibling Sexual Abuse Project
    The primary research initiative documenting the hidden and often unrecognized nature of sibling sexual abuse in the UK.

    Sibling Sexual Abuse Support
    A survivor-centered website developed from the project, offering guidance, educational materials, self-care tools, and peer support.

    Survivors Network
    A curated external resource page referencing SARSAS findings and providing links to support services and information for survivors, families, and professionals.

  • SafeSiblings.org

    Sibling Abuse Forever Ended is a nonprofit organization focused on increasing awareness and understanding of sibling abuse. The site provides research-based resources, guidance, and educational materials for parents, educators, and professionals to identify, prevent, and respond to harmful sibling dynamics that are often overlooked or minimized. It also includes information on their unique billboard campaign and links between sibling abuse and child trafficking.

  • Fun With Sisters and Brothers

    This free online evidence-based program is the result of decades of research on how children relate to their siblings. Parents are given the training to be coaches for their 4-8 year old children, empowering them with the skills to manage conflict and build harmony for positive, enjoyable relationships with their siblings.

  • Trauma Research Foundation

    The TRF is a non-profit organization dedicated to research, education and resourcing for anyone whose lives have been impacted by trauma.

    Although not focused on sibling abuse, they have an extensive range of courses, programs and resources to support understanding, moving through and healing from trauma. These include a wide range of training opportunities for clinicians, as well as experiences for those healing from trauma.

  • CREVAWC‍ and ‍The Learning Network

    are based at Western University in London, Ontario, and work in tandem to conduct interdisciplinary research, education, and knowledge mobilization on gender-based and family violence. They develop evidence-informed resources, newsletters, and tools to support understanding, prevention, and response to violence affecting women, children, and families, including sibling violence.

    The Learning Network Issue 21: Sibling Violence – An issue-based newsletter explaining sibling violence, how it may be identified, and key considerations for prevention and response.

    7 Facts Everyone Needs to Know About Sibling Violence– A concise research snapshot summarizing essential evidence and key facts on sibling violence from CREVAWC’s Learning Network.

  • Professional education on sibling conflict, aggression, and abuse is sparse. However, several organizations offer a range of specialized and trauma-informed programs focused on trauma and healing. These opportunities support clinicians, educators, and service providers in developing knowledge and skills for assessment, prevention, and intervention for a broad range of clients, communities, and needs. Until more training programs specifically for sibling abuse are created, those offered through these – and other – organizations are also relevant, particularly those that focus on trauma, emotional regulation, communication skills etc.

    SAARA
    Specialized training and presentations focused on sibling conflict, aggression and abuse and developing healthy sibling relationships.

    Safer Society Foundation
    Offers a professional course on understanding and intervening in sibling sexual behaviours and abuse.

    National Institute for the Clinical Application of Behavioural Medicine (NICABM)
    US based trauma-focused education featuring leading experts in the field of trauma.

    PESI Canada
    Canadian-based continuing education for mental health and therapy professionals.

Books

Research and Information

The books in this section present research in the sibling, family violence and trauma fields, and have been written for parents, siblings and families, or professionals in the fields.

  • Caffaro, John V. 2014. Sibling Abuse Trauma: Assessment and Intervention Strategies for Children, Families and Adults. 2. ed. Routledge. ISBN: 978-0-415-50686-1; 978-0-415-50685-4.

  • Caspi, Jonathan. 2012. Sibling Aggression: Assessment and Treatment. Springer. ISBN: 978-0-8261-2415-9; 978-0-8261-2416-6.

  • Caspi, Jonathan. 2024. Raising Loving Siblings: How to Stop the Fighting and Help Your Kids Connect. 1st ed. Guilford Publications. ISBN: 978-1-4625-3888-1; 978-1-4625-5658-8.

  • Michalski, Joseph H. 2022. An Integrated Investigation of Family Violence. Cambridge Scholars Publishing. ISBN: 978-1-5275-8894-3.

  • Neufeld, Gordon, and Gabor Maté. 2013. Hold on to Your Kids: Why Parents Need to Matter More than Peers. Vintage Canada. ISBN: 0-307-36196-9.

  • Salari, Sonia. 2023. Family Violence and Abuse: An Encyclopedia of Trends, Issues, and Solutions [2 Volumes]. Bloomsbury Publishing USA. ISBN: 978-1-4408-7141-2.

  • Sanderson, Christiane, and Simon Hackett. 2024. Working with Survivors of Sibling Sexual Abuse: A Guide to Therapeutic Support and Protection for Children and Adults. Jessica Kingsley Publishers. ISBN: 978-1-80501-126-2; 978-1-80501-127-9.

  • Van der Kolk, Bessel A. 2015. The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind and Body in the Healing of Trauma. Penguin Books. ISBN: 978-0-14-312774-1; 978-0-670-78593-3.

  • Watts, Brad. 2020. Sibling Sexual Abuse: A Guide for Confronting America’s Silent Epidemic. Admit Hub Ref Service Press. ISBN: 979-8-5784-9690-5.

  • Wiehe, Vernon R. 1997. Sibling Abuse: Hidden Physical, Emotional, and Sexual Trauma. 2. ed. SAGE. ISBN: 978-0-7619-1009-1; 978-0-7619-1008-4.

  • Wiehe, Vernon R. 2002. What Parents Need to Know about Sibling Abuse: Breaking the Cycle of Violence. Bonneville BooksTM. ISBN: 978-1-55517-586-3; 1-55517-586-4.

Survivor Memoirs and Fiction

The following are primarily memoirs by individuals with lived experience of sibling abuse. While they have not been vetted by the SCAAR team, they share with the reader a wide range of behaviours, family structures, and impacts upon the survivors, including their healing journeys.

  • Arcuri, Dana. 2023. Toxic Siblings: A Survival Guide to Rise Above Sibling Abuse & Heal Trauma. Independently published. ISBN: 979-8-218-28979-9.

  • Cartwright, Hannah Louise. 2014. Healing Sibling Sexual Abuse: A Very Personal Story. Helen Clark. ISBN: 978-0-9916113-1-7; 0-9916113-1-4.

  • Epstein, Jane. 2024. I Feel Real Guilty: A Memoir of Sibling Sexual Abuse. Life to Paper Publishing. ISBN: 978-1-990700-30-9; 1-990700-30-6.

  • Fried, SuEllen. 2022. Siblings: Bullying, Betrayal and Bonding Across the Lifespan. Waterside Productions. ISBN: 978-1-956503-67-8; 1-956503-67-6.

  • Garden, Mary. 2024. My Father’s Suitcase: A Story of Family Secrets, Abuse, Betrayal - and Breaking Free. Justitia Books. ISBN: 979-8-8849-9136-1; 978-0-646-89005-0.

  • Kilgore, Nancy. 2021. Sibling Abuse: True Story of the Impact to Childhood and Adulthood. Independently published. ISBN: 979-8-7414-5285-1; 1-5239-0224-8.

  • Kirby, Heidi Ann. 2026. My Sister's Secret Keeper: Surviving Family Secrets and Abuse: A Journey of Faith, Resilience, and Healing. Independently published. ISBN: 979-8-89694-756-1 ; 979-8-89694-755-4

  • Lynn, Sherri A. 2023. Unraveled: From Sibling Abuse to Sacred Self. Independently published. ISBN: 979-8-9865884-1-4.

  • Perle, Alice. 2023. Resolve: A Story of Courage, Healthy Inquiry and Recovery from Sibling Sexual Abuse. Edited by Matthew Earsman. Blue Borage Publishing. ISBN: 978-0-6457497-0-0; 978-0-6457497-1-7.

  • Shaw, Risa. 2000. Not Child’s Play: An Anthology on Brother-Sister Incest. Lunchbox Press. ISBN: 0-9704235-0-0.

  • Tichenor, Ronni, and Jennie Weaver. 2022. Healing Begins with Us: Breaking the Cycle of Trauma and Abuse and Rebuilding the Sibling Bond. Independently published. ISBN: 979-8-4415-4881-6.

  • Westover, Tara. 2018. Educated: A Memoir. Random House. ISBN: 978-0-399-59050-4; 978-1-4434-5248-9.

Podcasts

  • What Would Dr. Meyers Do? (WWDMD?)

    Dr. Amy Meyers is a psychotherapist and professor with expertise in sibling relationships and sibling abuse. While the focus of her podcast is on psychotherapy from a clinician’s perspective, it features an extensive series focusing on sibling abuse information, discussions, and interviews with experts in the field and people with lived experience of sibling abuse.

  • Safe Space Radio: Sibling Abuse, Dr. Vernon Wiehe

    Dr. Vernon Wiehe, a retired Social Work professor at the University of Kentucky, Lexington and national and international speaker, conducted the first significant research that explored sibling abuse as a form of family violence. Based on that research, this podcast is perhaps the first interview available to explore this issue.

    Interview from February 15, 2012

  • #SiblingsToo

    The #SiblingsToo Podcast, hosted by Nancy Morris from Ottawa, Ontario, explores sibling sexual abuse through research, expert insights, and survivor stories, providing guidance and support for survivors, families, and professionals.

  • SAARA experts provide evidence-based insights on sibling conflict, aggression, and abuse through podcast episodes designed for families, clinicians, and professionals. Each episode explores practical strategies, research findings, and guidance for understanding and addressing sibling harm.

    Healthy Children Podcast | Episode 58: Sibling Rivalry Expert Tips to De‑Escalate Fights and Build Stronger Bonds (Dr. Corinna Jenkins Tucker)

    Talking About Kids Podcast | Season 4, Episode 11: What You Need to Know About Sibling Aggression and Abuse (Dr. Corinna Jenkins Tucker)

    Talking About Kids Podcast | Season 4, Episode 30: What You Need to Know About Sibling Sexual Abuse (Dr. Tanya Whitworth)

    The Social Work Lens | Episode 48: Sibling Aggression and Abuse (Dr. Corinna Jenkins Tucker and Dr. Tanya Whitworth)

  • There are numerous podcasts about parenting, siblings and sibling rivalry. This one features sibling expert Johathan Caspi.

    Mindful Mama Podcast is a parenting and family wellbeing podcast that covers child development, relationships, and mindful approaches to raising children. It includes episodes with expert insights relevant to sibling dynamics and fostering healthy family relationships.

    Mindful Mama Podcast | Featuring Jonathan Caspi: Jonathan Caspi, author of Siblings! How to Cultivate Great Sibling Relationships, shares strategies for fostering healthy sibling relationships.

Research and Publications

There is a growing body of research now being done in the area of sibling abuse. Below is a representative sample of some of the studies, Canadian research, and references used on the SCAAR website.

  • Bouchard, Geneviève, Andréanne Plamondon, and Mylène Lachance-Grzela. 2019. “Parental Intervention Style and Adult Sibling Conflicts: The Mediating Role of Involvement in Sibling Bullying.” Journal of Social and Personal Relationships 36 (8): 2585–602. https://doi.org/10.1177/0265407518793227.

  • Bowes, Lucy, Dieter Wolke, Carol Joinson, Suzet Tanya Lereya, and Glyn Lewis. 2014. “Sibling Bullying and Risk of Depression, Anxiety, and Self-Harm: A Prospective Cohort Study.” Pediatrics 134 (4): e1032–39. https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2014-0832.

  • Buist, Kirsten L. 2021. “International and Cross-Cultural Research on Conflict and Violence between Siblings.” In The SAGE Handbook of Domestic Violence, by Todd Shackelford. SAGE Publications Ltd. ISBN: 978-1-5264-9486-3. https://doi.org/10.4135/9781529742343.n44.

  • Jones, David P. H. 2002. “Is Sexual Abuse Perpetrated by a Brother Different from That Committed by a Parent?: Comment.” Child Abuse & Neglect (Netherlands) 26 (9): 955–56. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0145-2134(02)00364-2.

  • Leijten, Patty, G. J. Melendez-Torres, and Bonamy R. Oliver. 2021. “Parenting Programs to Improve Sibling Interactions: A Meta-Analysis.” Journal of Family Psychology (US) 35 (5): 703–8. https://doi.org/10.1037/fam0000833.

  • Meyers, Amy. 2014. “A Call to Child Welfare: Protect Children from Sibling Abuse.” Qualitative Social Work 13 (5): 654–70. https://doi.org/10.1177/1473325014527332.

  • Meyers, Amy. 2017. “Lifting the Veil: The Lived Experience of Sibling Abuse.” Qualitative Social Work 16 (3): 333–50. https://doi.org/10.1177/1473325015612143.

  • Napier-Hemy, John. 2008. Sibling Sexual Abuse: A Guide for Parents. National Clearinghouse on Family Violence : Family Services of Greater Vancouver. ISBN: 978-0-9809135-5-2.

  • Perkins, Nathan H., and Amy Meyers. 2020. “The Manifestation of Physical and Emotional Sibling Abuse across the Lifespan and the Need for Social Work Intervention.” Journal of Family Social Work 23 (4): 338–56. https://doi.org/10.1080/10522158.2020.1799894.

  • Perkins, Nathan H., Kimberly A. Dressman, Brian L. Kelly, and Erik R. Lees. 2026. “Experiences With Physical and Emotional Sibling Violence in Childhood and Adult Attachment in a Sample of Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Individuals.” Families in Society 107 (1): 235–51. https://doi.org/10.1177/10443894241285532.

  • Perkins, Nathan H., Jennifer A. Shadik, and Johanna E. Reiter. 2024. “Parental Witnessing of Physical and Emotional Sibling Violence in Their Children: Associations with Parental Experiences of Physical and Emotional Sibling Violence and ACEs in Childhood.” Journal of Aggression, Maltreatment & Trauma 33 (5): 624–43. https://doi.org/10.1080/10926771.2024.2322957.

  • Plamondon, Andréanne, Geneviève Bouchard, and Mylène Lachance-Grzela. 2021. “Family Dynamics and Young Adults’ Well-Being: The Mediating Role of Sibling Bullying.” Journal of Interpersonal Violence 36 (9–10): NP5362–84. https://doi.org/10.1177/0886260518800313.

  • Renner, Lynette M., Laura M. Schwab-Reese, Elizabeth C. Coppola, and Shamra Boel-Studt. 2020. “The Contribution of Interpersonal Violence Victimization Types to Psychological Distress among Youth.” Child Abuse & Neglect 106 (August): 104493. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chiabu.2020.104493.

  • Stutey, Diane, and Elysia V. Clemens. 2014. “Hidden Abuse Within the Home: Recognizing and Responding to Sibling Abuse.” Professional School Counseling 18 (1): 2156759X0001800119. https://doi.org/10.1177/2156759X0001800119.

  • Stutey, Diane M. 2015. “Sibling Abuse: A Study of School Counselors’ Shared Attitudes and Beliefs.” The Professional Counselor 5 (3): 390–406. https://doi.org/10.15241/ds.5.3.390.

  • Tippett, Neil, and Dieter Wolke. 2015. “Aggression between Siblings: Associations with the Home Environment and Peer Bullying.” Aggressive Behavior 41 (1): 14–24. https://doi.org/10.1002/ab.21557.

  • Toseeb, Umar, and Dieter Wolke. 2022. “Sibling Bullying: A Prospective Longitudinal Study of Associations with Positive and Negative Mental Health during Adolescence.” Journal of Youth and Adolescence 51 (5): 940–55. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10964-021-01495-z.

  • Tucker, Corinna Jenkins, and David Finkelhor. 2017. “The State of Interventions for Sibling Conflict and Aggression: A Systematic Review.” Trauma, Violence, & Abuse 18 (4): 396–406. https://doi.org/10.1177/1524838015622438.

  • Tucker, Corinna Jenkins, David Finkelhor, and Heather Turner. 2024. “Patterns of Sibling Aggression and Mental Health in Childhood and Adolescence.” Journal of Family Trauma, Child Custody & Child Development 21 (1): 2–21. https://doi.org/10.1080/26904586.2023.2234369.

  • Van Kelecom, Eva, Corinna Jenkins Tucker, Stefaan Pleysier, and Johan Put. 2025. “Addressing Physical and Psychological Sibling Violence: Perspectives from Youth Care Professionals in Belgium.” Child Abuse & Neglect 169 (November): 107612. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chiabu.2025.107612.

  • Weir, Kirsten. 2022. “Improving Sibling Relationships.” Monitor on Psychology, March 1. https://www.apa.org/monitor/2022/03/feature-sibling-relationships.

  • Whitworth, TR, and CJ Tucker. 2024. “An Opportunity to Address the Most Common Form of Family Violence: Sibling Aggression.” Family Focus, National Council on Family Relations.

  • Wolke, Dieter, Neil Tippett, and Slava Dantchev. 2015. “Bullying in the Family: Sibling Bullying.” The Lancet Psychiatry 2 (10): 917–29. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2215-0366(15)00262-X.