Sure, there are a fewcons, too (hands off each others clothes!

), but the bond is usually a beautiful mix of love and occasionaltension.

Sometimes, though, that bond can come with unexpected demands.

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Keep reading to see how she navigates this tricky family dynamic and finally takes a stand for her future.

Sometimes, its because we genuinely want to hang out with themtheyre fun, and adorable.

Other times, its because our siblings offered something in return, maybe a little cash or a treat.

Teen looking thoughtful, sitting on a couch, prioritizing her future over babysitting her sister’s kids.

When done out of choice, helping can really bring the family closer.

But things can look very different when caregiving isnt by choice.

This is often called parentification, a term Hungarian-American psychiatrist Ivan Boszormenyi-Nagycoined.

Text excerpt about a teen prioritizing her future over babysitting her sister’s kids.

Simply put, parentification stems from poor boundary-setting.

This can happen for many reasons, like financial stress, illness, or even emotional manipulation.

The financial strain forces them into roles beyond their years.

Text discussing a teen prioritizing her future in nursing over babysitting sister’s kids.

Studies suggest that young adults who are parentified face a unique set of challenges.

Research shows such children may develop positive traits likeempathyand responsibility.

However, this often comes at the cost of highstress, anxiety, and lost adolescent experiences.

Text discussing a teen prioritizing her future over babysitting her sister’s kids, mentioning family advice and jealousy.

These young caregivers frequently miss out on social time, school involvement, and normal childhood experiences.

Did you feel a sense of responsibility or resentment during that time?

Check out the results:

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Teen reflecting while prioritizing her future, deep in thought indoors.

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Teen prioritizing future, looking upset in kitchen, red hair, maroon top.

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Teen sits with two kids playing on the floor, surrounded by toys, in a cozy living room setting.

Teen looking contemplative, prioritizing her future over babysitting responsibilities.

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A Reddit comment discussing a teen prioritizing her future over babysitting her sister’s kids.

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Reddit comment supporting teen’s decision to prioritize her future over babysitting duties for her sister.

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Reddit comment discussing a teen prioritizing future over babysitting for her sister.

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Reddit comment discussing prioritizing personal future over babysitting for older sister’s kids.

Reddit comment criticizing a teen prioritizing her future over babysitting.