Self-Reported Guilt Among Adult Siblings of People With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Abstract As more siblings become responsible for their aging brothers and sisters with intellectual and developmental disabilities, it becomes increasingly important to understand these siblings' emotional needs, including potential negative emotions such as guilt. This study examined the presence and correlates of self-reported guilt among 1,021 adult siblings of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Respondents completed the Adult Sibling Questionnaire, a national survey examining characteristics of adult health, depression, and feelings of guilt. Over 50% of siblings reported feeling increased guilt. Siblings who experienced increased guilt (versus those who did not) experienced less close sibling relationships, more depressive symptoms, and lower levels of well-being. Siblings experiencing more guilt also had brothers/sisters with more severe emotional/behavioral problems.