Presenter and Advisor Information

Isabel Michniak, Illinois Wesleyan UniversityFollow

Loading...

Media is loading
 

Submission Type

Synchronous Research Talk

Area of Study or Work

Sociology

Faculty Advisor

Meghan Burke

Expected Graduation Date

2021

Start Date

4-11-2021 1:00 PM

End Date

4-11-2021 1:15 PM

Comments

The PowerPoint is linked as a pdf below and the paper this work is based on will be added when it is available.

Abstract

When there is a child with autism in the family, conversations around the struggles and joys that occur are largely centered around the mother’s experience, despite the fact that these hardships are experienced by other members within the family. Siblings also play an integral role in the family, especially when there is another child with autism. Despite this, siblings’ perspectives and experiences with autism in the family are rarely investigated. This study draws on interviews with 8 individuals who have a sibling with autism in order to explore how this sibling influenced their life course decisions and larger family dynamics. Findings varied based on where their sibling fell on the autism spectrum, including additional familial responsibilities, perceptions of their personal and sibling’s futures, and what types of careers they decide to pursue as a result of this family experience. This research reveals the impact of having a sibling with autism on a wider range of family life.

Share

COinS
 
Apr 11th, 1:00 PM Apr 11th, 1:15 PM

The Concealed Perspective: A Qualitative Study About The Impact of Having a Sibling with Autism

When there is a child with autism in the family, conversations around the struggles and joys that occur are largely centered around the mother’s experience, despite the fact that these hardships are experienced by other members within the family. Siblings also play an integral role in the family, especially when there is another child with autism. Despite this, siblings’ perspectives and experiences with autism in the family are rarely investigated. This study draws on interviews with 8 individuals who have a sibling with autism in order to explore how this sibling influenced their life course decisions and larger family dynamics. Findings varied based on where their sibling fell on the autism spectrum, including additional familial responsibilities, perceptions of their personal and sibling’s futures, and what types of careers they decide to pursue as a result of this family experience. This research reveals the impact of having a sibling with autism on a wider range of family life.