•  
  •  
 

Journal of Undergraduate Research

Keywords

sibling relationships, children with autism, CWA

College

Nursing

Abstract

The social and behavioral issues of autism are very unique and have a deep impact on families, particularly siblings, as they learn to cope and live with a child with autism (CWA). However, there is limited information in the literature relative to the experience of the sibling, and the information that does exist is often conflicting. The research shows that siblings of CWA experience stress, frightening behavior, and violence in the home (Benderix & Sivberg, 2007). Furthermore, some researchers found that siblings demonstrated less intimacy in sibling relationships, and were negatively affected socially and emotionally (Hastings, 2003; Kaminsky & Dewey, 2001; Petalas, Hastings, Nash, Lloyd, & Dowey, 2009). However, research also shows positive effects, such as sibling maturity, sense of responsibility, positive self concept, lack of quarrelling and competition, admiration for the CWA, satisfaction with the relationship, and positive self-concept (Benderix & Sivberg; Kaminsky & Dewey; Macks & Reeve, 2007). Two studies explored variables contributing to the difference in results, finding that low socioeconomic status, male gender, older sibling age, smaller family size and stressful life events decreased siblings’ ability to cope with the CWA (Macks & Reeve; Orsmond, Kuo & Seltzer, 2009). Due to limited available research, the purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of siblings living with a child with autism (CWA).

Download

Included in

Nursing Commons

Share

COinS