Understanding and Supporting Siblings of Individuals with ASD -10/25/18

The experiences of siblings of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are unique, from their early years as children through adulthood. Having a brother or sister on the autism spectrum will impact many aspects of the sibling’s life, including relationships with the sibling with ASD, parents, and peers. Understanding and addressing the concerns that arise for siblings can be difficult for the siblings and the parents. Professionals can be a resource for families by helping parents learn to effectively respond to developing concerns by identifying sources of support and including them in their brother or sister’s treatment.



In this workshop, I will summarize the research on the development of the sibling relationship over time, and how having a brother or sister with ASD impacts the sibling both practically and emotionally. Strategies for navigating the challenges that arise for siblings will be provided, including how to foster a relationship between siblings by including them in treatment. Additional information about how to provide support to the neurotypical sibling in group and individual settings, talk with the sibling about ASD, and plan for the role siblings will take on in their brother or sister’s life as they age will help professionals best support the whole family. Personal anecdotes shared by siblings will be offered to help illustrate their perspective on the joys and challenges of growing up with a sibling with ASD.

Learning Objectives:

Attendees will learn to :
-Describe the development of the sibling relationship over time.
-Explain the impact of autism spectrum disorder on siblings, practically and emotionally, over the lifespan.
-Discuss ways to foster the relationship between siblings by including siblings of individuals with ASD in their brother or sister’s treatment.
-Develop age-appropriate support for siblings in group and individual settings.

Kate Fiske Massey, Ph.D., BCBA-D is a Clinical Associate Professor at the Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology of Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey and an Associate Director of Behavioral and Research Services at the Douglass Developmental Disabilities Center. She has worked in the field of ASD treatment for over 15 years, providing evidence-based services in skill acquisition and behavior reduction in inpatient, outpatient, and school settings. She has authored numerous chapters and journal articles on the treatment of children with ASD and their families, and is the author of the book, Autism and the Family: Understanding and Supporting Parents and Siblings.

Presenter Disclosure Statement

During this talk, I will discuss the structure of the sibling support group at the Douglass Developmental Disabilities Center, where I am employed as a Rutgers faculty member. These groups are free to the public, so the center does not benefit from enrollment in these groups.

I will also mention material from my book, Autism and the Family: Understanding and Supporting Parents and Siblings. I receive royalties for the sale of this book.