Supporting Siblings

Abstract

This paper reports on an aspect of the work of `Facing the Challenge' and the development and evaluation of sibling support groups, designed to help brothers and sisters discuss and explore their relationships with their sibling with learning disabilities. The aims of the support groups were to help siblings identify and use positive strategies for living with brothers and sisters who have learning disabilities and associated challenging behaviour. The groups were structured and had a problem solving focus. The majority of activities were presented on an educational and informative basis. Leisure activities were used to give the children time to discuss issues and engage in age appropriate play. Assessments were carried out in the child's home and during the group sessions: these included psychometric tests and a knowledge questionnaire. An increased involvement between siblings was found following participation in the support groups. In addition, there was an improvement in siblings' self-esteem and knowledge of learning disability and associated challenging behaviour. Positive feedback on the groups was received from parents and carers through a post-group questionnaire.