Experiences of siblings of children with chronic health conditions: A qualitative study in the Australian context

Background and purpose

Siblings of children with chronic health conditions face unique psychosocial challenges, yet their voices remain underrepresented in research. While existing studies primarily rely only on parental proxy reports of sibling well-being or focus on experiences of older siblings or are confined to specific conditions like cancer, there is limited understanding of siblings' experiences more broadly from their voice. This study investigated the experiences of siblings of children with chronic health conditions in Australia from both sibling and parental perspectives.

Design and methods

A descriptive qualitative study using purposive sampling was employed to recruit siblings (aged 5–12 years) of children with chronic health conditions and their parents. Families were recruited through schools, non-profit organizations, and private practitioners, and data were collected using online semi-structured interviews based on the Sibling Embedded Systems Framework. Framework Analysis was used following the deductive-inductive approach.

Results

The sample included 14 parents and 9 siblings. Emerging themes highlighted that siblings experience mixed emotions when navigating changes in their lives related to their brother's or sister's chronic health condition. They often develop responsible and caring behaviors, but also negative interpretations over time. Siblings expect timely and age-appropriate illness-related information and communications.

Conclusions and implications

Data suggests that siblings' adjustment and coping in the context of a pediatric chronic health condition might be influenced by their involvement in caregiving and decision-making related to the disease condition, which needs to be studied further. Findings will guide the health service delivery to enhance siblings' well-being and improve family outcomes.