TY - JOUR TI - Evaluating the benefits of multiple sibling relationships in families of individuals on the autism spectrum DO - https://doi.org/doi:10.7282/T3CN77D0 PY - 2018 AB - Previous research has suggested that having a sibling on the autism spectrum impacts the quality of the sibling relationship as well as the psychological functioning of neurotypical siblings. It is important to examine the extent to which having a typically developing (TD) sibling in addition to a sibling on the autism spectrum may help promote more positive sibling relationships and serve as a protective factor against psychological distress. The present study asked 11 young adults who have a sibling diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) as well as a TD sibling and 11 young adults who only have a sibling with ASD to complete measures relevant to the overall functioning of a young adult. These included assessments of the sibling relationship, psychological distress, and career development. Respondents were asked about their perceptions of the impact of their siblings on these variables during childhood and at the present time. Overall, the findings of the present study did not support the hypothesis that individuals who have a neurotypical sibling in addition to a sibling with ASD differ from individuals who only have a sibling with ASD in areas of career development and quality of the sibling relationship. However, results provided some support for the hypothesis that the two groups differ on measures of psychological functioning. Specifically, individuals who have a neurotypical sibling in addition to a sibling with ASD are more likely to report higher levels of anxiety than individuals who only have a sibling with ASD. The implications of the present study, along with recommendations and directions for future research on adult siblings of individuals with ASD are also discussed. KW - Clinical Psychology KW - Autistic children--Family relationships LA - eng ER -