Perceptions of Siblings of People with Trisomy 21 on Family Relationships

Abstract

ABSTRACT: The birth of a child with a disability brings implications, changes in the environment and family dynamics. The family goes through a process of overcoming until the child acceptance with disability and the establishment of a suitable family environment that includes and meets his/her needs. Trisomy 21 (T21) is the most frequent genetic anomaly among those diagnosed. This study aimed to identify the perception of a sibling group of people with T21 regarding their family and social relationships. The sample consisted of 18 adolescents aged between 11 and 16 years, siblings of people with T21, and 17 guardians. Data collection occurred through semi-structured interviews conducted by video calls, with an average duration of 10 to 15 minutes. The interviews were recorded, transcribed and analyzed qualitatively based on the creation of thematic nuclei and categories. The results reinforce the importance of family relationships as a security factor and acceptance of the siblings’ needs.

Keywords

• Family influence
• Down syndrome
• Family
• Psychology
• Family relationships