Sociological research on sibling relations of children with and without disability

In this study, which aims to examine sibling relationships from the eyes of disabled and non-disabled siblings, the role of disability on the sibling relationship is described. Within the scope of the study, sibling relations, disability, how the disabled individual defines themselves/their sibling as a disabled individual; Duties and responsibilities undertaken in the brotherhood relationship; It was researched within the framework of the evaluation styles of the sibling relationship and the changes that disability creates on the sibling relationship. Qualitative research design was used in the study. The study was conducted with 4 disabled children (15-18 age group) who had one or more of the physical, visual and hearing impairment types and their non-disabled siblings (11-27 age group) with whom they lived. In this context, 12 disabled children and their siblings were reached and in-depth interviews were held with a total of 24 people. Data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires during face-to-face interviews. The data obtained were evaluated with thematic analysis carried out within the framework of social construction approach and family system theory. While the dominance of the medical model in the definitions of disability and disabled individuals within the scope of the themes reached was remarkable, it was observed that the social model perspective emerged in the definitions of the disabled sibling. When we look at the duties and responsibilities undertaken by siblings, non-disabled siblings have more responsibilities in terms of both helping their disabled siblings and helping their families with the work at home. On the other hand, it has been reported that siblings have both positive and negative comments when evaluating their relationships. Finally, it was focused on how not having a disability or having a lower degree of disability reflects on sibling relationships. It was noteworthy that while disabled siblings made evaluations based on limitations due to loss of ability/function, non-disabled siblings emphasized the changes that would occur in their lives.