Siblings of children with chronic physical and cognitive disabilities

Abstract

During the past 20 years, numerous researchers have examined the effects on well children of having a chronically physically and/or cognitively ill/disabled sibling. Although the findings are inconsistent and inclusive, the effects of this chronic family stress are less than previously thought. This article is a summary of studies conducted across the lifespan, highlighting effects on well sibling adjustment/well-being, stress and coping, self-concept, sibling interactional relationships, parenting, and mediating variables. Sibling intervention studies are examined, and nursing implications are presented.