The birth of a child with special needs (CSN) affects all family members and influences the dynamics of family life. Siblings, the first after the parents that establish an intensive relationship with the CSN, represent a model through which the CSN is developing sexually, morally, linguistically, and motorically. Despite some positive consequences, growing up in such specific familiar environment can cause numerous psychological disorders and feelings of unease for the siblings, from an inferiority complex, fear, to guilt, resentment, and isolation.
The theoretical part describes the influence of the CSN on the dynamics of the family, with special focus on siblings. It highlights their role and significance for the CSN, relationship with the parents, the difficulties they face as well as the positive factors with which we can influence the adjusting of the sibling(s). The empirical part provides insight into the experiences of siblings of children with special needs, their relationships with their siblings and parents, and last but not least the difficulties with which they face due to the specific family situation.
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