Does Having a Sibling With Autism Spectrum Disorder Affect Children’s Social Adaptation and Skills?

This study aimed to compare the social adaptation and skill levels of siblings of children with autism and those of typically developing (TD) children. The sample consisted of 96 mothers, with 48 mothers of children with autism and 48 mothers of TD children. The Social Adaptation and Skills Scale (SASS) was used to assess the children’s social adaptation and skills. Results indicated a significant difference in the SASS total scores between the two groups of siblings (Z = -3.253, p = 0.001). Significant differences were also found in the sub-dimensions of “Impulsivity” (Z = -3.541, p = 0.001), “Attention and Hyperactivity” (Z = -3.361, p = 0.001), “Social Relationships” (Z = -2.189, p = 0.029), and “Emotional State” (Z = -2.528, p = 0.011). These findings suggest that siblings of children with autism face challenges in multiple areas, leading to lower SASS scores compared to siblings of TD children. The results highlight the importance of involving the entire family in the education and rehabilitation process.