Kids would rather spend their time with a pet, not a sibling.
The Journal of Applied Developmental Psychology studied a group of 12-year-olds and their relationships with their pets and their siblings.
The kids were much more satisfied and had a lot less conflict when left with their pet, rather than a brother or sister.
The study found that the bond were strongest between pet owners and dogs, compared to other animals.
The study also found that young girls have stronger feelings of companionship with their pets than the male participants in the study. Girls are also more likely to share personal information wtih tehir pets.
Authors of the study says this may lead researchers to a better understanding of how pets aide a child’s development.
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