Rob's parents divorced when he was three years old. His mother remarried, and after another three years he had a sibling, Simon. They have always been very close. When the family moved to another town and they started at a new school, Alice said to Rob: "Why does your brother look nothing like you?" When Rob explained that they had the same mother but different fathers, Alice asked: "So is he your real brother?" Rob and Simon were hurt and offended. What should Alice have understood?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Asking if someone is a "real" brother or sister can imply that non-biological relationships are less legitimate or meaningful, which can be hurtful and offensive. It overlooks the fact that family bonds are not solely defined by biological connections.

Rob's Parents Divorced When He Was Three Years Old