"Help, I Hate My Sibling!"

Constantly bickering? Annoyed by their attitude? Fix those fights before they turn into a full-on family feud.

- By Kathleen O'Neill

They're your backseat road-trip buddy and your go-to inside joker. But ever since summer started, the constant together time with your sibling is bringing up conflicts you never even knew you had...and the tension is stressing you out. Don't let summer break turn into a nonstop dramafest: Whether you're cooped up at home or headed out on a family vacay, allow us to offer some dos and don'ts for avoiding altercations with your nearest and dearest and strengthening your bond for good.

DO: REALIZE THAT SIBLING SPATS ARE TOTALLY NORMAL.

Truth? Spiffs are super common (according to a recent study, 80% of those under 17 report conflict with a brother or sister) and a normal part of growing up. Plus, they may have some benefits, too. "Sorting out arguments can help develop healthy communication and conflict resolution skills," says social worker Steve Carleton. And that's a talent that'll serve you for years to come.

DON'T: EXPECT YOUR BROTHER OR SISTER TO BE EXACTLY LIKE YOU.

You prefer a chill afternoon reading in your hammock, while your sister is always down for a neighborhood pool party. Your interests and personalities are definitely different and that's OK.

To bond, focus on common experiences, "even if it's just sharing stories about growing up in the same home," suggests social worker Joni Ogle. Leah M., 16, found camaraderie with her brother over a mutual love for music. "We have different personalities, but we both like Spotify. So we started sharing playlists, and now we have good convos about new artists."

DO: CREATE SPACE TO DO YOUR OWN THING.