Understanding the Effect of Crohn's Disease on Siblings: A Case Study

Date of Award

Spring 6-9-2017

Document Type

Doctoral Research Paper

Degree Name

Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology

Organizational Unit

Graduate School of Professional Psychology

First Advisor

Laura Meyer

Second Advisor

Peter Buirski

Third Advisor

Sheryl Kent

Copyright Statement / License for Reuse

All Rights Reserved
All Rights Reserved.

Keywords

Patients with Crohn's Disease, Siblings, Emotional and behavioral functioning, Chronic illness

Abstract

The primary purpose of this study was to collect exploratory data on the experiences and reactions of siblings of a patient with Crohn's Disease. A secondary purpose was to obtain descriptive data on the emotional and behavioral functioning of these siblings, as measured by the BASC-3. Research showed that siblings of adolescents are at an increased risk of developing depression, anxiety, and other maladaptive behaviors when there is a chronically ill patient in the home. This single-family case study was conducted to assess the emotional and behavioral functioning of siblings of a patient with Crohn's Disease. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with each family member to gather their subjective responses about their experiences, and elaborate on what led to adequate and appropriate adjustment, if indicated. Self-report measures were given to each adolescent (patient and two siblings) and the parents (to report about each adolescent) in order to assess current emotional and behavioral functioning. Qualitative results clarified the distinction between reactions at the time of diagnosis versus the present, which was two years post diagnosis. Initial reactions included attention seeking behaviors and separation, dependent on the developmental level of the sibling. Quantitative findings indicated no current clinically significant maladaptive emotional and behavioral responses. Adequate adaptation was believed to be due to communication, support, and maintaining roles.

Copyright Date

6-23-2017

Publication Statement

Copyright is held by the author. Permanently suppressed.

Rights Holder

Samantha Kluger

Provenance

Received from Author

File Format

application/pdf

Language

English (eng)

Extent

45 pgs

File Size

1.3 MB

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