ERIC Number: EJ1468979
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2025-Mar
Pages: 13
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1360-2322
EISSN: EISSN-1468-3148
Available Date: 2025-03-10
Beyond the Frame: A Photo-Elicitation Study of Sibling Experiences on the Stay of Their Sibling with a Moderate to Profound Intellectual Disability in Group Homes
Journal of Applied Research in Intellectual Disabilities, v38 n2 e70028 2025
Background: Parents' decisions to use out-of-home support for children with intellectual disabilities significantly impact all family members, including siblings. However, siblings' perspectives on this transition to group homes remain underexplored. This study examines siblings' emotional experiences and changes in their personal and family lives due to their brother or sister's move to a group home. Methods: Using photo-elicitation and in-depth interviews, we engaged eight children (aged 7-17) with siblings in group homes. Participants captured changes or consistencies in daily life through photographs, which served as conversation triggers. Results: Participants highlighted objects and spaces reminding them of their sibling and documented missed or regained activities and interactions. Five themes emerged, reflecting their emotional experiences and perspectives. Conclusions and Implications: Siblings provided a nuanced view of their sibling's stay, noting benefits and feelings of incompleteness. Professionals should consider siblings' emotions and beliefs in caregiving decisions, recognising the significant impact on their lives.
Descriptors: Siblings, Children, Adolescents, Emotional Response, Family Environment, Group Homes, Family Structure, Photography, Moderate Intellectual Disability, Severe Intellectual Disability
Wiley. Available from: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 111 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030. Tel: 800-835-6770; e-mail: cs-journals@wiley.com; Web site: https://www.wiley.com/en-us
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: 1Special Education and Parenting, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium