Brightness and darkness of adolescents with siblings with disabilities: Behavioral problems and positive cognition

Abstract Objective This study aimed to examine the mediating role of depression in the relationship between parental neglect and delinquent behavior among adolescents with siblings with disabilities and to verify the moderated mediation role of sibling daily uplifts in these associations. Background Siblings of people with disabilities may influence how well a family can function; therefore, their relationship problems, problem behaviors, and mental health must be understood in depth. Related studies have focused primarily on people with disabilities or parents of people with disabilities. In contrast, this study focused on the relationship factors of siblings as the research subjects. Method A sample of 364 adolescents aged 13 to 18 years who had siblings with developmental disabilities was analyzed. Hayes's SPSS Process tool was used to verify the moderated mediation effect. Results Depression significantly mediated the relationship between parental neglect and delinquency. Second, sibling daily uplifts moderated the indirect effect of parental neglect leading to delinquency. Conclusions Specific interventions such as family relationships, emotional programs, and sibling support programs are needed to enhance the functional roles and well‐being of adolescents with siblings with disabilities.