Postulates, based on clinical observations, that a preadolescent child must bring to bear on a sibling he has to raise open or hidden attitudes of unmitigated violence. This attitude is not tempered by psychological or biological maturity that allow for adequate parenting. The case of a hostile child who was taken care of by his older brother in numerous foster placements, & who was admitted to hospital because of parasuicidal activities, is presented & discussed in these terms. (RM)