Relational Patterns of Support and Communication in Families with a Child Diagnosed with Autism: an Interpretive Phenomenological Study.

BACKGROUND

The impact of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can be far-reaching for families. Research has shown that neurotypical (NT) siblings can experience negative and positive implications of ASD in their lives. However, researchers have not fully captured the factors associated with successful adaptation to the range of experiences, particularly regarding NT siblings and the relational support from and communication with their parents.

METHODS

We utilized an interpretive phenomenological analysis to illuminate and better understand NT siblings' experiences of parental support and communication.

RESULTS

Analysis of qualitative semi-structured interviews with seven families of parents with at least one sibling over the age of 10 (N = 22) yielded four significant themes: (a) targeted NT sibling time, (b) targeted NT sibling communication, (c) sibling expectations, and (d) understanding autism.

CONCLUSION

The findings regarding relational support patterns suggest that NT siblings' experience with autism is positively influenced by parents who dedicate time to the NT siblings, communicate openly with them, and educate them about autism.