Potential Impact of Genomic Information on Childhood Sibling Relationships

Abstract

(from the chapter) This chapter will explore the impact of pediatric genetic illness on siblings. We will review the literature on family communication, sibling relationships, trauma and attachment theory, parental mourning, sibling guilt, and shame. In addition to existing literature, we will primarily focus on two serious pediatric genetic disorders, one autosomal recessive (ataxia-telangiectasia) and the other X linked (X-linked severe combined immune deficiency). This will include a comparison of the similarities and differences in sibling understanding of genetic information and perception of carrier status, as well as a comparison of the psychosocial impact on sibling relationships. As research on siblings of children with genetic disorders is relatively sparse, other diseases will be explored as well. Most notably, siblings of children with cancer appear to share the same psychological background and some of the same psychological consequences of the disease (Cuttini, Da Fre, Haupt, Giovanni, & Tamaro, 2003; Zebrack et al., 2002; Zeltzer et al., 1996). Therefore, this chapter will also include the experience of siblings of children undergoing cancer treatment, particularly those who become bone marrow and stem cell sibling donors. Clinical case examples will be provided to illustrate the similarities and differences between disorders, how these affect family functioning, and the sibling relationship. A summary of major issues and future directions will conclude the chapter. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2015 APA, all rights reserved).