Abstract
Background: characterized by qualitative abnormalities in social interactions and its incidence increased.
Objective: To evaluate the Quality of Life (QOL) among siblings of autistic children.
Methods: 95 Egyptian siblings of autistic children as group1 and, 95 healthy children matched in age as a control group took part in this study. The study was conducted between February 2009 -May 2010. Inclusion criteria: age between 6 and 12 years old and regular attendance to school. Exclusion criteria: absence of chronic illness; or psychiatric diseases; motor disabilities; cognitive and/or intelligence disabilities. Quality of life was evaluated by WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire, which assesses satisfaction in different life circumstances, by means of 4 factors (autonomy, leisure, functions and family).
Results: The mean age 9.2 yr, +/−SD 3.7.QOL among siblings of autistic children was significantly limited in sibling of autistic than control (P 0.02). The level of impairment of physical (p = 0.002) social relationships (P0.004) and psychological (p = 0.01) well-being were higher in female than in male sibling.
Conclusion: The quality of life was compromised in children by the presence of an autistic sibling. They are in need for additional support.
Article PDF
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Eladl, A., Atwa, H. Quality of Life in Siblings of Autistic Children. Pediatr Res 70 (Suppl 5), 313 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1038/pr.2011.538
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/pr.2011.538
This article is cited by
-
Functioning Among Typically Developing Siblings of Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Meta-Analysis
Clinical Child and Family Psychology Review (2019)