Adjustment of Siblings of Children with Chronic Illnesses

Abstract

Siblings of children who have chronic medical conditions can experience both positive and negative outcomes related to their brother or sister’s illness. For example, siblings can experience increased empathy and compassion. Their bonds with their brother or sister typically are affectionate. The downside is that siblings can feel isolated and “in need” of parental attention. Improving support from parents, school staff, and peers, as well as allowing siblings to express their feelings are positive techniques for improving their coping. Interventions to educate and support siblings appear to have a beneficial impact on sibling functioning and remain an area for future research.

Keywords: Sibling adjustment, sibling coping, siblings’ grief, sibling isolation, supporting siblings.

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