The paper examines the possible role of siblings of handicapped children in helping or caretaking. A review of the literature is performed as a basis for proposing that there are circumstances in which intrinsically motivated, or altruistic, helping may be a more adaptive approach to coping with a handicapped brother or sister than other…

This study compared the adjustment and competence of 100 children and adolescents, half of whom were siblings of individuals with mental retardation. Although there were no overall differences for internalizing disorders, externalizing disorders, self-esteem, and competence, boys with a mentally retarded sibling had more difficulty in school…

The mental health consequences of having a handicapped brother or sister and factors that may be related to psychological adjustment are discussed. Also explored are the use of parental consultation, behavior modification, and discussion groups as potential intervention strategies with siblings of the handicapped. (Author)

Research has shown that siblings can experience either negative or positive mental health outcomes as a result of having a brother or sister with disabilities. When maladjustment occurs, it is frequently attributed to the stress of excessive helping. This research-based paper proposes that siblings of children with disabilities, perceiving…

Longitudinal study from early through late adolescence investigated gender differences in relation between internalizing symptoms of depression and anxiety reported by adolescents, and emotional distress and marital discord reported by mothers. Found that gender differences emerged in midadolescence, by which time parental disturbances were…