Sibling Experiences in the Context of Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Study of Social, Emotional, and Professional Life
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Introduction: Research on the family experiences, psychosocial adjustment, and future planning of typically developing siblings of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) remains limited. This study aimed to explore, from a comprehensive perspective, the experiences of typically developing siblings of individuals with ASD across their family, social, emotional, and professional lives.Method: This qualitative study employed a phenomenological design and included semi-structured interviews with 14 typically developing siblings of individuals with ASD. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis.Findings: The findings were organized into six themes: family relationships, concerns about one's own life, personal experiences, responsibilities and caregiving, social life, and future life. Participants reported that having a sibling with ASD contributed to the development of empathy, patience, a sense of responsibility, and emotional resilience. At the same time, increased caregiving responsibilities, societal prejudice, and uncertainty about the future were associated with stress, anxiety, and emotional strain. Participants also described career interests in fields such as special education, psychology, and social work and reported shaping their financial planning and life goals around the future care of their siblings.Discussion: Limited societal awareness appeared to restrict the social participation of typically developing siblings and increase their emotional burden. Accordingly, family-based support programs should be developed, initiatives to promote societal awareness should be expanded, and professional counseling should be provided to support families and siblings in planning for the future.
Authors: Ela Özekçi, Halil Öztürk
Institutions: Anadolu University, Ege University
Language: Turkish
Subfield: Clinical Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7223916344