Abstract
Research on the experiences of siblings of individuals with Autism
Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is scarce. The current study included 14
siblings of individuals with ASD to study their lived experiences.
Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis was used to identify the
following six themes: (i) Processing and understanding the condition,
(ii) Coping with challenging experiences, (iii) Positive aspects of the
sibling relationship, (iv) Current and future roles, (v) Support system,
and (vi) Needs and expectations. The findings revealed that siblings had
poor awareness of ASD and their experiences were predominantly negative.
However, siblings minimized their difficulties and needs, and focused
more on the needs of the sibling with ASD. These findings have specific
implications for support services for siblings of individuals with ASD.