Social Well-Being of Siblings Living with a Child with Diabetes

Abstract

Qualitative data were collected to determine the impact on children where the sibling have diabetes. This study represents an attempt to achieve a broad perspective and understanding of effects on the well child and family relations. In-depth interviews were conducted with siblings and their parents exploring the impact of diabetes on sibling's daily lives, sibling relationships and knowledge of diabetes. In this study we gained firsthand knowledge of the actions and reactions of children to their siblings in the context of their daily lives. A semi-structured interview guide was used to assist data collection. A sample of 32 participants was interviewed involving well children and their parents.

Key Words:

• Childhood diabetes
• siblings
• sibling relationships
• sibling adjustment
• qualitative study