Young adults' sibling relationships: Italian adaptation and validation of the Lifespan Sibling Relationship Scale (LSRS)

To deepen our understanding of young adults’ sibling relationships in the Italian context, this study examines the psychometric properties of the Italian adaptation and validation of the Lifespan Sibling Relationship Scale (LSRS) in a sample of 350 Italian university students (68.6% females, 31.4% males; ages 19-30 yr., M = 23.6, SD = 3.2). Confirmatory factor analysis showed the expected six-factor structure and a close correlation between factors and scales. Internal consistency was adequate and correlation analysis with the Adult Sibling Relationship Questionnaire (ASRQ) confirmed the theoretical relations among the constructs. The findings confirm the transcultural validity of the LSRS. Moreover, results are consistent with research findings, indicating that: women show a more positive attitude toward sibling relationships, especially when reporting their relationship with sisters; older siblings show a more positive attitude toward sibling relationships; perception of current maternal and paternal partiality is related to negative attitudes toward sibling relationships.