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Working with Siblings of Children with Autism: A Solution-focused Approach

The literature on how autism spectrum disorders ( ASD) impact the family unit primarily focuses on the negative experiences of parents and neurotypical ( NT) siblings. This unintentional focus may impact the therapist's ability to identify strengths within the family unit and further perpetuate the misconception that ASD is only a 'problem.' This paper reviews NT siblings' experiences of living with an ASD sibling. A solution-focused brief therapy framework is used in order to alter the covert message that an ASD diagnosis is a 'problem' for the families. Recommendations are provided to assist family therapists in focusing on the positive experiences reported by the NT sibling in ASD families, especially the relationship with his or her diagnosed sibling and primary caregivers.

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Key Information

Type of Reference
Jour
Type of Work
Journal article
Publisher
Wiley-blackwell
Publication Year
2016
Issue Number
4
Journal Titles
Australian & New Zealand Journal of Family Therapy
Volume Number
37
Start Page
558
End Page
571
Language
English