Exploring the lived experiences of siblings who grow up with a sibling diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder

Abstract

This research project explores the lived experiences of young adults who are living with a sibling diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) by asking one methodological question: What are the lived experiences of young adults who lived with a sibling diagnosed with ASD in Saskatchewan? The research practicum employs a phenomenological approach, which includes semi-structured interviews and participant derived photographs, involving 5 adult siblings in Saskatchewan. A different relationship, but it is not one that is less became the essence shared within the different lived experiences of the study participants. The essence was impacted by two major themes identified throughout the analysis, including challenging and positive experiences. Subthemes that emerged from the challenging theme include the diagnosis and complex and layered. Positive experiences subthemes include reciprocity and bonding. These themes are discussed, along with the implications for social workers and future research.