Show this to your sister the next time you get into a row!
New research has found that women with sisters tend to be happier and more optimistic than those with brothers.
According to a study conducted by Ulster University and De Montfort University in Leicester, women who are brought up with female siblings make the best emotionally adjusted adults.
The study involved 571 young people between the ages of 17 and 25. They were questioned about the make-up of their families and their emotional well-being.
Researchers discovered sisters encourage their siblings to discuss their emotions.
Professor Tony Cassidy from the University of Ulster said:
"Sisters appear to encourage more open communication and cohesion in families. However, brothers seem to have the alternative effect. Emotional expression is fundamental to good psychological health and having sisters promotes this in families."
The lowest scores were among boys who had only brothers.
Prof Cassidy explained:
"It could be that boys have a natural tendency not to talk about things. With boys together it is about a conspiracy of silence not to talk. Girls tend to break that down."
