A Meta-Analysis of Sibling-Mediated Intervention for Brothers and Sisters Who Have Autism Spectrum Disorder

Abstract

We conducted a meta-analysis which included 16 sibling-mediated intervention studies that aims to utilize siblings to teach their brothers and sisters with autism spectrum disorder play skills, functional skills, or to decrease unwanted behaviors. In general, results across the studies show that sibling-mediated intervention has medium effect size and can be used as a method to improve many skills which include social and communication skills. Sibling-mediated intervention also facilitated maintenance and generalization of the targeted skills. The researchers discuss the findings and make suggestions for future investigations.