Final answer:
Siblings with a large age gap typically experience the least conflict, while same-age and same-sex siblings may face more rivalry. Foster care studies emphasize the importance of siblings being together to navigate challenges and support each other.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question regarding sibling relationships and which tends to have the least conflict is answered in part by considering different research findings. Siblings with a large age gap are often thought to have the least conflict due to the reduced competition for parental attention and resources as well as the different life stages that decrease rivalry. In contrast, siblings close in age or same-sex siblings may have more competition and potential for conflict. Furthermore, research shows that siblings placed together in foster care or non-parental care tend to provide each other with essential support, navigate social challenges together, and show more closeness to their foster caregivers compared to those who are separated. This demonstrates the importance of the sibling bond in providing continuity and mutual support, especially during challenging times such as moving to a new foster home.