Siblings Under the Shadow: A Qualitative Study of Young Adults’ Parentification Experiences with Siblings with Special Needs

ABSTRACT

Using systemic theory as the framework, this qualitative study focused on the parentification experiences of young adults with typical development who have siblings with special needs. The sample consisted of 10 siblings. Thematic analysis yielded one overarching theme: parentification. Under the overarching theme of parentification, the levels of themes are personal, family and romantic relationships. Family level themes entail having a lack of sufficient family support, co-managing caregiving processes with parents and taking active roles in family conflict resolution. Personal level themes are difficulties of being parentified, difficulty in accepting the condition and the development of empathy skills. Relationship level covers impact on the future decision making and the similar relationship patterns between one’s own couple and family subsystems. The results are discussed through a culturally informed lens around the qualities of Turkish family dynamics and values. Clinicians should consider the influence of parentification while working with psychotherapy.

KEYWORDS:

• Parentification
• sibling
• individuals with special needs
• family systems
• thematic analysis

Acknowledgments

The author appreciates the suggestions of Serkan Özgün, Ph.D., Senem Zeytinoğlu-Saydam, Ph.D., Emine Ayyıldız, Ph.D. and Celia Naivar Şen, Ph.D.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

The research reported in this article was not supported by any external funding source.