An insight into the lives of young siblings of disabled children in Malta

Abstract

This qualitative study examines the experiences of seven young children, aged eight to twelve, siblings of disabled children living in Malta. It aims at giving a voice to young siblings of disabled children and at identifying the need for services for these siblings. Participants in this study shared their experiences during individual interviews, and during a focus group discussion. The data were analysed in the light of the ‘new sociology of childhood’ and the ‘social model of disability’ using Thematic Analysis. Findings from this study show that siblings of disabled children share a unique relationship with their disabled siblings. Both positive and negative aspects of these experiences and their effect on the siblings emerged from this study. Different feelings towards their disabled siblings were shared. The siblings articulated their unique personal needs

Points of interest

• This article recounts the personal experiences of young siblings of disabled children based on a study with seven Maltese children who have a disabled brother or sister.

• Siblings shared their life experiences in relation to three main aspects: their life as children, their relationships with their disabled siblings, and their relationships with their family and friends.

• Children mentioned that they would like to obtain information about their sibling’s impairment so as to understand them better.

• Siblings need to feel better prioritised when it comes to parental attention and support from family members.

• Siblings may also benefit from services of organised peer support groups

Keywords:

• Siblings
• disabled children
• daily experiences
• thematic analysis

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Notes

This research was carried out in Malta and was completed as part of the first author's master's dissertation under the supervision of the second author as supervisor, and the third author as co-supervisor.