The influence of disability on siblings

Abstract

Adolescence is a time where a number of changes happen to the individual and the ultimate goal of such changes is to develop a sense of self. The aim of this study is to get to know the experiences of adolescents who live with a physically disabled sibling and how disability has impacted their lives. To conduct this research, five semi-semi-structured interviews were conducted with adolescents aged 10 to 15 years who live with a physically disabled sibling. These interviews aimed at collecting information regarding adolescents‟ experiences of living with a disabled sibling and how they think this experience could have impacted their lives. The data collected was then analysed using thematic analysis. The findings that emerged from this study are represented into two themes: (i) My feelings Getting to know about the impairment was a difficult period especially for those whose disabled sibling was younger. However, throughout the years they have managed to deal with the situation and accept it as part of their lives. They also identified what disability is for them and how society at large sees disability. The main finding in this regard was that adolescents do make a distinction between their idea of disability and that of others. They also expressed that they feel frustrated when others do not treat disabled people like any other human being. (ii) “After all he's my brother” The main findings in this theme suggest that relationship with the three systems; family, siblings and peers, is not affected by disability. It was evident that relationship between them was normal and therefore constituted of both positive feelings such as love and also negative connotations like conflicts they have with their siblings. With regards to peers and family, adolescents appreciate the support they get from them and also value their friends understanding their situation without any hesitations.