Balancing one's own life with caregiving for a sibling with schizophrenia: A qualitative study

Siblings of individuals with schizophrenia often assume caregiving roles as their parents age. However, the process by which the unaffected siblings balance their family life and their relationship with the affected sibling remains unclear.

This study aimed to clarify the process by which married individuals reconstruct their relationship with a sibling who has schizophrenia as their parents age.

This study employed a qualitative design based on the modified grounded theory approach.

The participants were recruited through mental health and family welfare associations by snowball sampling.

The participants were 7 married individuals (1 man, 6 women; age, 50-65 years) who had a sibling with schizophrenia.

Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with the participants, and verbatim transcripts were analyzed to generate concepts and categories.

The analysis revealed a dynamic process in which married individuals who have a sibling with schizophrenia transition from self-sacrificing involvement to a relationship of "running alongside" the affected sibling. Initially, the unaffected siblings [Feel overwhelmed by a sense of duty]. As caregiving burdens threaten their own family life, they reach a critical turning point where they [Protect life with their partner]. Following this decision, the unaffected siblings establish boundaries by which they [Maintain a comfortable distance from the affected sibling]. Concurrently, through peer interactions, they [Re-examine their identity].

The unaffected siblings' decision to protect their own families is a crucial turning point where they recognize the limits of their self-sacrifice. Acknowledging that they cannot fully assume the parental role, they establish a sustainable distance and reconstruct their identities through peer support. Ultimately, they transition to "running alongside" the affected sibling. Nursing professionals should facilitate this transition by providing psychological support, connecting them with social resources, and offering opportunities for peer interactions.

Not registered.