Let's just say your big brother had a tendency to beat you up in those early years. You may even harbor a little resentment over that treatment.

But now you're an adult and you need to find a way to let go and build a fresh relationship. Your parents won't be around forever, but your siblings will likely be by your side throughout your life.

Close sibling relationships become even more critical when you're dating and eventually marry and have kids. That's the time when partners and kids will pick up on any ill-will and it can have lasting negative effects.