Siblings and Inheritances: A Phenomenological Study Exploring the Relational Outcomes Following the Inheritance Distribution Process

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to contribute to a more complete understanding of the family inheritance experience by exploring the perspectives of beneficiaries. This qualitative study aimed to describe and discuss how individuals' sibling relationships were impacted following the distribution process of an inheritance that was intended to be equally distributed. Eight individuals participated in semi-structured interviews, with areas of inquiry covering perceptions of challenges and benefits of the distribution process, fairness of the outcome of distribution among siblings, and the impact the process has had on their sibling relationships. The data was analyzed using transcendental phenomenology. Findings suggest families experience varying degrees of conflict during inheritance distributions, but not all conflict was devastating to the relationships following the distributions. Specific relational aspects were identified in contributing to the level of satisfaction of the distribution, which subsequently affected their relationships afterward. Additionally, the handling of conflict and efforts to repair relational strains significantly contribute to relational outcomes following the distribution. The majority of participants reported stronger relationships following the inheritance distribution. The findings provide a foundation for further research to explore beneficiary's experiences of receiving an inheritance within multi-child families.