ABSTRACT
<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To compare the differences in mental health state and psychological capacities between Chinese college students with and without siblings.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>The psychological status and capacities were evaluated with SCL-90, the Self-Esteem Scale, Spheres of Control Scale, Security Questionnaire and Cattell 16-PF Questionnaire in 427 college students, and among the students who presented valid responses, 139 with and 139 without siblings were selected for this comparative study.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The total score and average score of SCL-90 in college students without siblings were significantly lower than those in students with siblings (P<0.05); the scores of factors C, E, and F of 16-PF were significantly higher but the score of factor O significantly lower in the former group (P<0.05). The scores of certainty in control, interpersonal security and total score of security were significantly higher in the students without siblings (P<0.01).</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>The mental health state and some of the psychological capacities are generally better in college students with siblings than in those without siblings.</p>