A Study on Home-Based Supports for Siblings of Brothers and Sisters with Autistic Disorders

Abstract

　　This study aimed at clarifying sibling's views and their issues concerning their brothers and sisters with autistic disorders, the characteristics of their developmental features at each stage, and their recognition, and response to difficulties, in order to acquire the key to home-based supports for siblings. 43 siblings who had brothers and sisters with autistic disorders were interviewed. As a result, as for sibling's views of their brothers and sisters, “The way they are” based on their actions or character, and “their personality” were shown. As for sibling's matters concerning their brothers and sisters, “the consciousness of others” such as others' looks and concern, “direct damage” such as physical attacks on them and breakage of personal belongings, “difficulties in coping” and “consideration” for their brothers and sisters were shown. Moreover, it was suggested that as for developmental features, the school-age was a significant term during which the sibling's view of their brothers and sisters changed. From the above, as home-based support, it is necessary to tell siblings suitable information about the actions and the characteristics of their brothers and sisters, to pay attention to their trifling problems from an early stage, and to show them the methods to solve the problems they face.