The literature on the experience of siblings of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has been growing in recent years. However, most studies have been conducted in Western countries. This study aimed to address this gap by conducting a thematic analysis on childhood experiences of typically developed (TD) siblings of children with ASD in Iran, exploring their challenging and positive experiences along with the support they received and would have needed. In this regard, five adult TD siblings who grew up with an ASD sibling in Iran were interviewed about their childhood experiences. The analysis of the interviews resulted in six main themes: Experience of distress and personal growth, Complex sibling dynamics: challenges and joys, Challenges within the family, Informal support as the main resource, Inadequate formal support, and Social and cultural barriers This study indicated that the Iranian TD siblings experienced emotional difficulties, challenges in interactions with their ASD siblings, and challenges in their families. Despite these issues, positive outcomes such as personal growth and enhanced empathy were also reported. This study also underscored the critical role of both informal and formal support systems, highlighting a significant gap in professional support and a lack of societal understanding of ASD within the Iranian context. Recommendations include developing formal supports adjusted to the unique needs of TD siblings considering their social and cultural context.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:UPSALLA1/oai:DiVA.org:hj-65255 |
| Date | January 2024 |
| Creators | Vazifehghelichi, Mahsa |
| Publisher | Jönköping University, HLK, CHILD, Jönköping University |
| Source Sets | DiVA Archive at Upsalla University |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Student thesis, info:eu-repo/semantics/bachelorThesis, text |
| Format | application/pdf |
| Rights | info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess |
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