Abstract
This mixed method study examined maternal perceptions of their children’s sibling relationship when one child has autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and one is typically developing. Six mothers completed a questionnaire and semi-structured interview pertaining to their perceptions of the quality of the sibling relationship, the children’s development, adjustment, and impact on one another. Mothers spoke kindly of both children and offered positive and negative perceptions of the sibling relationship. Mothers perceived that sibling influence was bi-directional, in that both children affect the behaviors and interests of one another, regardless of diagnosis and birth order. Typically developing siblings were described as very involved and caring towards their sibling; however, siblings and parents seem to experience day-to-day challenges associated with family relationships and dynamics. Findings highlight the need for services to address the individual needs of parents and siblings in response to having a child with ASD.
Highlights
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Mother’s perception of the sibling relationship quality was investigated and revealed positive and negative dynamics between siblings with ASD and typically developing siblings.
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According to mothers, there is evidence of a bi-directional influence on each child’s personality and development when one sibling has ASD.
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Developmental age may allow the typically developing sibling to take on certain roles, regardless of birth order.
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Acknowledgements
This study was supported by the Concordia University Research Chair in Early Childhood Development and Education to the second author. We would like to thank all the families that participated in this study who shared their stories to contribute to research and knowledge.
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Appendix A
Appendix A
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1.
Can you tell me a little about yourself? About your family?
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2.
Can you describe the personality of [TD child]?
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3.
Can you describe the personality of [child with ASD]?
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4.
How do you perceive their sibling relationship?
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a.
How do they get along?
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b.
How do they interact?
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c.
What do they do together, apart?
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a.
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5.
How do you see your children influencing each other?
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Is there anything else you’d like to share?
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Perlman, J., Howe, N. Mothers’ Perceptions of the Sibling Relationship When One Child has Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Child Fam Stud 32, 965–976 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10826-022-02495-8
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10826-022-02495-8