Siblings of handicapped children :

Abstract

A 3 x 2 x 2 multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) performed on subject scores on the two dependent measures suggested that the siblings of handicapped children expressed different attitudes and/or levels of adjustment than did the siblings of nonhandicapped children. Separate 3 x 2 x 2 analyses of variance (ANOVA) were performed on subject SAS scores and subject RTBRS scores. Results of the ANOVA on subject SAS scores suggested that the siblings of handicapped children expressed more positive attitudes than did the siblings of nonhandicapped children, regardless of the severity of the handicapped child's disability. In the RTBRS ANOVA, a significant main effect for sibling handicap was observed in the direction of poorer adjustment in children with handicapped siblings. Dunn's procedure for mean comparisons indicated that children with mildly/moderately retarded siblings reported lower levels of adjustment than did siblings of severely/profoundly handicapped children.

Sixty children were included in the study: 20 siblings of non-handicapped children, 20 siblings of mildly/moderately retarded children, and 20 siblings of severely/profoundly handicapped children.

This research examined the sibling attitudes and levels of personal/social adjustment reported by school-aged children. Of particular interest was a comparison of sibling attitudes and levels of adjustment reported by children with handicapped brothers or sisters with those of children with nonhandicapped siblings. Two self-report measures were constructed and used: (1) the Sibling Attitude Scale (SAS), based on the work of Helen Koch (1956), and (2) the Role Tension Behavioral Rating Scale (RTBRS), based on the personal/social correlates of role tension described by Bernard Farber (1959).

Results of the study were discussed in terms of their relationship to previous research in the area, and their implications for clinical intervention and future research.