Emotions and perceptions of parents and siblings in families with an individual with special needs

The aim of the current study was to analyze emotions and perceptions of parents and siblings in families which have at least one individual with special needs. Sample of this qualitative case study consisted of 10 mothers, 10 fathers, and eight normally developing siblings of individuals with special needs. All participants were residing in Silifke, Mersin, Turkey. A total of 17 families which have special needed individuals were interviewed. In three of the participant families, both parents and siblings participated in the study. In other families mothers were the participants. Participants were recruited by criterion sampling of the purposeful sampling method. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with the parents. Siblings were requested to write an essay about their experiences, emotions, and perceptions related to their sibling with special needs. Interview with the six-year-old child has been conducted through play. Content analysis method was utilized to analyze data collected through interviews and essays. Family stress related to care of the person with special needs and concerns related to future was common among participating families. Nearly all parents voiced extreme concerns about the care of their child with special needs after they become old or pass away. Parents talk to their normally developing children about their siblings with special needs and entrust them with the responsibility of taking care of their siblings with special needs in the future. Parents believe either their children or partners would take care of the individual with special needs if this need arise in the future. Although family stress was common among participant families, receiving psychological support was rare. While none of the siblings received psychological support, only three of the mothers reported receiving psychological support. The parents perceive the relationship between their normally developing children and children with special needs as positive. Normally developing siblings of the individuals with special needs reported having difficulties comprehending the extend of the disability when their siblings initially received a diagnosis considered their sibling with special needs as being sick. Parents seem to play a significant role in helping their normally developing children appreciate the needs of their siblings with special needs. Normally developing children were active in taking care of their of siblings with special needs and indicated that they envision continuing to be responsible for taking care of their siblings in the future plans, as well. Parents and normally developing siblings of individuals with special needs reported having similar emotions and perceptions.