Heightened Risk of Internalizing and Externalizing Symptoms in Siblings of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Families of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often experience heightened stress due to increased caregiving demands, financial strain, and emotional challenges, which can shift parental resources. Siblings of children with ASD may take on additional caregiving responsibilities, experience feelings of neglect, or struggle with their own emotional well-being, making them particularly vulnerable to psychopathological symptoms. This study examines whether siblings of children with ASD close in age (or the same age) exhibit higher levels of internalizing (e.g., depression, anxiety) and externalizing (e.g., aggression, hyperactivity) symptoms compared to those without a sibling with ASD. Utilizing data from the Adolescent Brain and Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study, we conducted a one-way analysis of variance on the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) internalizing and externalizing scores at baseline (ages 9-10; F = 56). Our sample included 126 participants–63 siblings of children with ASD and 63 sex, age, and site matched sibling controls (participants without a sibling with ASD). Preliminary results indicate that siblings of children with ASD exhibit significantly higher levels of internalizing and externalizing symptoms than controls. These findings reinforce prior evidence that siblings of children with ASD may be at a higher risk of internalizing and externalizing symptoms early in adolescence, highlighting the need for interventions to support their well-being.