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How do lineal kin differ from collateral kin?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
(Left) Absence of inbreeding: horizontal lines connect mates, vertical lines connect parents with their child; (right) an inbreeding loop: horizontal bar at top of loop connects brother and sister, all other lines and bars as above
consanguinity (Left) Absence of inbreeding: horizontal lines connect mates, vertical lines connect parents with their child; (right) an inbreeding loop: horizontal bar at top of loop connects brother and sister, all other lines and bars as above

In the study of kinship, the distinction between lineal and collateral kin is based on their position relative to an individual's direct line of descent:

  • Lineal kin consist of those individuals who are in a direct line of ancestry or descent with you. This includes your parents, grandparents, children, and grandchildren.12
  • Collateral kin are relatives who share a common ancestor with you but are not part of your direct line of descent. They are considered to be "off to the side" of your lineage. This category includes siblings, cousins, uncles, aunts, nephews, and nieces.123

While genetics often focuses solely on the degree of consanguinity—for example, a great-grandparent and a great-grandchild share the same degree of genetic relationship as first cousins—social and legal systems may treat these relationships differently based on custom or specific cultural norms.1