How do I help a sibling who is always on the receiving end of sarcasm? 

Parenting Perspective 

Protecting Without Overprotecting 

When one child becomes the repeated target of sarcasm, it can damage their confidence and create resentment within their sibling relationship. Your role is to protect your child’s dignity while addressing the behaviour fairly. Supporting the child who is on the receiving end means helping them feel safe, teaching them how to respond, and ensuring your family environment discourages unkindness. 

You should step in quickly when sarcasm turns hurtful by saying, “That comment was not respectful; let us stop here.” This sends a clear signal to the receiving child that you see their hurt and will not allow them to be constantly targeted. However, you must avoid scolding in a way that makes the child feel weak or unable to stand up for themselves. 

Teaching Assertive Responses 

You should coach the child to respond calmly and assertively. You can teach them phrases like, “I do not like being spoken to that way. Please say it directly.” This gives them the tools they need to set boundaries confidently without escalating the conflict. 

You must also work on the family’s overall culture. Make it clear that sarcasm is not acceptable in your home. Reinforce positive sibling interactions with praise by saying, “I liked how you explained that without teasing.” This builds a culture where kindness is valued above mockery. By supporting the receiving sibling in these ways, you affirm their dignity and show them they do not have to tolerate repeated disrespect. 

Spiritual Insight 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Hujuraat (49), Verse 10: 

‘Indeed, the believers are brothers (to each other); so, make peace with your brothers; and seek piety from Allah (Almighty) so that you may receive His Mercy.’ 

This verse reminds us that siblings are meant to support one another, not cause harm, and that repairing bonds is a part of our faith. 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2564, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The Muslim is the brother of another Muslim. He neither oppresses him nor humiliates him, nor looks down upon him.’ 

This teaches us that protecting a sibling from humiliation is a sacred duty and that dignity is central to brotherhood. When you intervene firmly and equip the receiving sibling with confidence, you are aligning your parenting with the Islamic values of justice, mercy, and honour. Both children learn a valuable lesson: one, that sarcasm is unacceptable, and the other, that their worth is respected. This nurtures a family culture built on compassion and protection rather than mockery.