Background: Down syndrome is a genetic disorder caused by the presence of an extra copy of chromosome 21. It is characterized by intellectual disability, developmental delays, and physical features such as a flattened face, short neck, and small head and ears. Previous research has suggested that having a sibling with Down syndrome may have a positive impact on children, as they may develop richer family values, warmth, kindness, and empathy. However, research on the needs and perceptions of siblings with Down syndrome in the Indian population is limited. Therefore, this study aims to assess the feelings and perceived impact among siblings of children with Down syndrome.
Methodology: From September 2015 to August 2016, 40 siblings of children with Down syndrome were recruited for this study, after obtaining written informed consent from both parents and siblings. Socio-demographic details were collected, and the siblings were interviewed using the “feeling and perceived impact questionnaire scale” to assess their feelings and perceived impact. Each sibling was interviewed only once.
Results: The majority of siblings, across all ages, expressed feelings of love or fondness towards their siblings with Down syndrome. A minority of siblings reported feeling sad or sorry for their sibling with Down syndrome. The majority of younger siblings enjoyed helping their sibling with Down syndrome learn new things.
Conclusion: The findings suggest that having a sibling with Down syndrome does not negatively impact the feelings or perceptions of siblings. Rather, siblings express positive emotions towards their brothers and sisters with Down syndrome, and enjoy helping them learn and grow. This study adds to the limited literature on the perceptions and needs of siblings of children with Down syndrome in the Indian population.
