Perceptions and concerns of the school-age siblings of children with myelomeningocele
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Siblings of children with myelomeningocele show significant empathy and concern. This study highlights the importance of recognizing and supporting the needs of these often-overlooked family members.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Nursing
- Family Studies
- Developmental Psychology
Background:
- Chronic illnesses significantly impact the entire family unit.
- Siblings of children with myelomeningocele (MM) are an understudied population.
- Understanding the sibling experience is crucial for holistic family care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the perceptions and concerns of school-aged siblings of children with myelomeningocele.
- To compare sibling perceptions with maternal views of the sibling relationship.
- To investigate the influence of age, birth order, and gender on sibling experiences.
Main Methods:
- Descriptive study design.
- Qualitative data collection via sibling interviews and maternal surveys.
- Involved 15 children with myelomeningocele and their mothers.
Main Results:
- Siblings demonstrated high levels of empathy and concern for their affected brothers and sisters.
- Maternal perceptions of the sibling relationship largely mirrored those of the siblings.
- No significant effects of age, birth order, or gender were identified on the sibling relationship.
Conclusions:
- Siblings of children with myelomeningocele exhibit notable empathy and concern.
- Nurses play a vital role in assessing and addressing the needs of these siblings.
- Recognizing siblings' contributions and ensuring their needs are met is essential for family well-being.
Abstract:
Chronic illness affects all members of the family, including siblings. Siblings of children with myelomeningocele have been studied infrequently. This descriptive study examined the perceptions and concerns of the school-age siblings of children with myelomeningocele and compared sibling responses with maternal perceptions of the sibling relationship. The effects of age, birth order, and gender were also examined. Fifteen children and their mothers participated in the study. Data were collected through a sibling interview and maternal survey. Qualitative analysis of the sibling responses revealed a high level of empathy and concern for their brothers and sisters with myelomeningocele. Maternal responses yielded similar findings. No statement could be made regarding the effects of age, birth order, or gender upon the sibling relationship. Nurses are in a unique position to assess the perceptions and concerns of siblings, and to intervene to ensure that their needs are met and their contributions to family life recognized.