Relationships between Typically Developing Individuals and their Siblings with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Qualitative Analysis

Abstract

This qualitative study is an investigation into how having a sibling with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects sibling relationships, specifically, how typically developing adults perceive their relationships with their siblings who have autism and the effects of autism on their relationship and their lives. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with three typically developing adults who had siblings with autism spectrum disorder. Thematic analysis of the interviews produced five themes regarding the effects of autism on sibling relationships and the typically developing siblings’ lives. The findings show that the participants experienced both hardships and benefits of having a sibling with ASD. Their most frequently mentioned hardships were parents’ disproportionate attention paid to their siblings with ASD and its effects on their relationship with their parents, some barriers to forming friendships, and a heightened sense of responsibility for the affected sibling. The most frequently mentioned benefits of having a sibling with autism were effects on personal development, forming friendships with others in similar situations, and valued relationships with the siblings who have autism. In addition, all participants stated having a very close relationship with their siblings with autism.