Images of life: siblings of children with Down syndrome

Abstract

This qualitative, descriptive study used photography to capture important symbols in the lives of 16 siblings living in families raising a child with Down syndrome (CWDS). Content analysis revealed two categories: people/nonpeople. The people category included family members and friends, whereas the non-people category included objects, animals, and buildings. Similarities/differences also were noted according to age and gender. Seven- to 9-year-olds took more snapshots of themselves and their parents than did the other age groups; the 10-to 12-year-olds and 13- to 15-year-olds took more photographs of the CWDS than did the younger age group. Female siblings took more snapshots of their typically developing brothers/sisters, family members in mixed groups, and people not in their family than did male siblings. Male siblings took more photographs of their parents and themselves. Results validate the importance of gathering qualitative data from children and confirm the use of photography as one of these methods.