Date of Award

2023

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)

Department

Graduate Department of Clinical Psychology

First Advisor

William Buhrow

Second Advisor

Celeste Jones

Third Advisor

Ryan Thompson

Abstract

When a family member has a mental disorder, such as schizophrenia, depression, or autism spectrum disorder, family dynamics and expectations often shift and change. This can influence how the siblings of these individuals, known as well siblings, interact with and experience their relationships with family members and peers. However, few studies have examined how well siblings perceive their relationships during the developmental period of emerging adulthood, which represents a time of increased differentiation and identity development. The present study explored the ways in which relationships with family and close friends differ between well siblings and their peers with typically developing siblings. The Family Adaptability and Cohesion Scale, fourth edition (FACES IV) and Network of Relationship Inventory - Relationship Quality Version (NRI RQV) were administered to a group of 234 undergraduate students who identified as having at least one sibling. Differences between those who endorsed having a sibling with a diagnosed mental disorder and those who did not were examined. Results indicate that the overall family dynamics are impacted by having a sibling with a mental disorder, with higher levels of chaos observed. Additionally, sibling relationships appear to be the most strongly affected, with well siblings noting lower levels of emotional support received from their siblings. As a result, well sibling’s relationships need more attention by researchers and mental health clinicians need to devote more attention and support to this population.

Download

Included in

Psychology Commons

Share

COinS