Growing up with a sibling with a disability

Abstract

The aim of this study, is to shed light on the sibling’s experience of growing up with a sibling with an intellectual or developmental disability as well as discover how this reality may have contributed to shaping them into the people they are. While not downplaying or excluding the moments of hardship and challenges faced by the siblings without a disability, specific attention was given to characteristics, like strength and resilience, that may have been nurtured within the latter as a result of this experience. This was done in the light of what is known of positive psychology. Narrative interviews were carried out with five adults that grew up with a sibling with a disability and data collected was analysed using thematic analysis. The findings have highlighted the unique reality lived by siblings as well as how this experience has contributed to forming their characters and even influenced their values and choices. Moreover, it has emphasised the value, importance and insight that their voice holds. They are the future advocates of their sibling with a disability and need to be provided with the appropriate support.