Supporting young siblings of children with intellectual disabilities and/or visual impairments with the serious game

Linda K M Veerman1, Agnes M Willemen1, Suzanne D M Derks1

  • 1Department of Clinical Child and Family Studies; Amsterdam Public Health; LEARN!; Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1105, Amsterdam 1081 HV, the Netherlands.

Insights

The online game "Broodles" showed small quantitative effects but significant qualitative benefits for siblings of children with disabilities, enhancing resilience and potentially preventing mental health issues.

Area of Science:

  • Child Psychology
  • Digital Health Interventions
  • Family Support

Background:

  • Siblings of children with neurodevelopmental conditions face emotional challenges and mental health risks.
  • Limited availability of sibling support interventions necessitates accessible solutions.
  • The 'Broodles' serious game offers a free, online, self-administered intervention for siblings aged 6-9.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the social validity and effectiveness of the 'Broodles' game.
  • To evaluate the game's impact on quality of life and inter/intrapersonal factors.
  • To understand the experiences of siblings using the intervention.

Main Methods:

  • A mixed-methods, waitlist control group, randomized controlled trial.
  • 107 parent-child dyads completed questionnaires at baseline, 1-month, and 2-month follow-up.
  • Multilevel modeling for quantitative effects and thematic analysis for qualitative feedback.

Main Results:

  • Weak interaction effects on negative adjustment were observed in engaged users (≥75% game completion).
  • Small, significant improvements over time were noted across various outcomes, irrespective of group.
  • 'Broodles' was rated as fun (80%) and helpful (79%), with learning themes including 'sibling awareness' and 'coping strategies'.

Conclusions:

  • Qualitative data indicate 'Broodles' fosters resilience and may prevent mental health issues in siblings.
  • Quantitative effects were modest, suggesting potential for enhancement.
  • Future research should explore adding family-focused components to amplify the intervention's impact.
Abstract

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