ERIC Number: EJ1261159
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2020-Aug
Pages: 14
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1362-3613
EISSN: N/A
Randomized Controlled Trial of a Sibling Support Group: Mental Health Outcomes for Siblings of Children with Autism
Jones, Emily A.; Fiani, Theresa; Stewart, Jennifer L.; Neil, Nicole; McHugh, Susan; Fienup, Daniel M.
Autism: The International Journal of Research and Practice, v24 n6 p1468-1481 Aug 2020
Typically developing siblings of a child with autism spectrum disorder may be at increased risk of mental health difficulties. A support group is one approach to improve mental health outcomes for typically developing siblings. During support groups, typically developing siblings discuss their feelings, learn coping strategies and problem-solving skills, and develop a peer network. We conducted a randomized controlled trial comparing a support group to an attention-only social control group. Some areas of mental health improved. Autism spectrum disorder symptom severity in the sibling with autism spectrum disorder moderated effects. Findings suggest continuing to examine what areas of mental health and adjustment are improved with support groups and subgroups of typically developing siblings for whom support groups might be particularly effective.
Descriptors: Autism, Pervasive Developmental Disorders, Siblings, Mental Health, At Risk Persons, Coping, Peer Relationship, Social Support Groups, Emotional Response, Problem Solving, Skill Development, Severity (of Disability), Program Effectiveness, Behavior Problems, Symptoms (Individual Disorders), Group Discussion
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: New York (New York)
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A