Quality of Life in Siblings of Autistic Children

• Published in: Pediatric research Vol. 70; no. Suppl 5; p. 313
• Main Authors: Eladl, A, Atwa, H
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: New York Nature Publishing Group US 01-11-2011
• Subjects: 692/699/476/1312; 692/700/1720; 692/700/784; Medicine; Medicine & Public Health; Pediatric Surgery; Pediatrics; poster-presentations-developmental-neurodevelopmental-disability-and-other-long-term-outcome-studies
• ISSN: 0031-3998; 1530-0447
• DOI: 10.1038/pr.2011.538

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.