A Comparison of Attitudes and Knowledge Towards Autism Based on Adult Sibling Experiences

Abstract Studies examining relationships between neurotypical and autistic siblings have reported inconsistent findings when focussing on children adolescents, with little research investigating adult sibling relationships. This is of particular interest as can often take over the guardianship or care a their parents are no longer able to. The current study examined knowledge attitudes towards autism. 50 mixed types (autistic + sibling) & 59 matched (neurotypical completed attitude questionnaires. In addition, thematic analysis responses provided by from was used to explore experiences autism based Results showed non-significant difference significant in From analyses four themes were identified: Robbed Childhood, Sibling Self, Concerns for Future, Autism Awareness. found that having diagnosed predict autism, however, does not drive attitudes, therefore further needed understand which factors since behaviour. qualitative within childhood adulthood, implications future. perspectives discussed.