In the previous two posts, we looked at the challenges faced by siblings of chronically ill children and how we can support them. Today, we’ll focus on something positive: the incredible resilience and strength many of these siblings develop. Let’s explore how they handle challenges and what positive qualities often emerge.
What is resilience?
Resilience can be defined as the ability to cope with and overcome difficult situations. For siblings of chronically ill children, it’s about adapting and thriving despite the extra challenges they face.
Coping strategies
Research shows that resilient siblings often use several different coping strategies:
- Problem-solving: Active approach to challenges
- Seeking support: Talking to friends, family, or professionals
- Distraction: Engaging in hobbies or activities
- Cognitive restructuring: Finding positive aspects of the situation
As Houtzager et al. (2004) point out:
“Siblings who were able to maintain a positive outlook and use active coping strategies showed better psychological adjustment.”
Houtzager, B. A., Grootenhuis, M. A., Caron, H. N., & Last, B. F. (2004).
Quality of life and psychological adaptation in siblings of paediatric cancer patients, 2 years after diagnosis.
Psycho-Oncology, 13(8), 499-511.
Lenke til artikkelen
Positive outcomes
Despite the challenges, many siblings also report positive experiences and personal growth:
- Increased empathy and understanding
- Greater maturity and sense of responsibility
- Stronger family bonds
- Increased gratitude for their own health
- Better problem-solving skills
“These healthy siblings are better at internalizing human values such as patience, tolerance, gentleness and attentiveness, listening, sympathy and concern, generosity, altruism, respect for that which is different, the ability to overcome obstacles in life, sense of righteousness, and in general they have higher levels of empathy with respect to others.” (Lizasoain, 2015)
Lizasoain, O. (2015).
Siblings of children with chronic illness: Psychological adjustment and family functioning.
Journal of Pediatric Psychology, 40(5), 501-511.
Lenke til artikkelen
Factors that promote resilience
Research has identified several factors that contribute to increased resilience in siblings:
- Open family communication
- Strong social support
- Feeling valued in the family
- Opportunity to participate in the care of the ill sibling
- Maintaining own interests and activities
“Open family communication helps siblings to better understand the situation, therefore minimizing misunderstandings and disappointment.” (Deavin et al., 2018)
Deavin, A., Greasley, P., & Dixon, C. (2018).
Children’s perspectives on living with a sibling with a chronic illness: A systematic review of qualitative studies.
Journal of Pediatric Nursing, 40, 74-83.
Lenke til artikkelen
Challenges as opportunities
Many siblings learn to view challenges as opportunities for personal growth. As a study by Fleary and Heffer (2013) found:
“Siblings often try to find a reason behind the events that occur, and they can even blame themselves for the illness. ‘What did I do wrong’? ‘Is it my fault’?'”
By helping siblings reframe these thoughts, we can support their resilience:
- “What can I learn from this situation?”
- “How can I use this experience to help others?”
- “What strengths have I developed through this?”
Fleary, S. A., & Heffer, R. W. (2013). Impact of illness disclosure on adjustment in siblings of children with chronic illnesses. Journal of Child and Family Studies, 22(3), 377-386.
Lenke til artikkelen
Supporting resilience
To promote resilience in siblings, parents and professionals can:
- Acknowledge and value siblings’ contributions
- Encourage open communication about feelings
- Help siblings identify and build on their strengths
- Offer opportunities to meet others in similar situations
- Ensure that siblings have time and space for their own interests
Conclusion
Siblings of chronically ill children face unique challenges, but many also develop impressive resilience and strength. By recognizing and supporting this resilience, we can help siblings not only cope but also grow through their experiences.
In the next post, we’ll take a closer look at various interventions and support measures specifically developed for siblings. Stay tuned!
//Stay strong, and rock on!
//Stig