Results support the future conduct of more controlled evaluation of the integrated sibling and parent group intervention model to improve sibling knowledge of and adjustment to CI/DD.

Research is critically reviewed and evaluated, first, in order to determine if the presence of a handicapped child in a family uniquely affects the nonhandicapped siblings, and, second, to identify factors mediating the nature and power of those effects. In addition, projects involving sibling therapy, education, and training are described. Currently there are few well-controlled empirical investigations supporting the popular belief that, as a group, siblings are adversely affected by their handicapped brothers or sisters. Rather, only certain siblings appear to be vulnerable to negative reactions, depending on such factors as sibling sex and birth order, family socioeconomic status, and parental responses to the handicapped child. Recommendations are offered for improved research strategies and questions and for the careful evaluation of future educational and support services for siblings.

No abstract