Sibling Relationship Quality and Its Link to Flourishing Among Emerging Adults in the Context of Chronic Illness and Disability

The current study examines associations between sibling relationship quality and flourishing among emerging adults with and without a sibling living with a chronic illness or disability. A sample of 186 college-attending emerging adults aged 18–29 completed an online questionnaire about their mental health and sibling relationship quality. Exploratory analyses examined relations among the prevalence of chronic illness or disability, sibling relationship quality, and flourishing. Results indicate that youth who have a sibling with a chronic illness or disability report lower levels of sibling relationship quality; however, for all youth (regardless of sibling diagnosis), sibling closeness was associated with greater flourishing. Results are discussed in terms of considerations for promoting the well-being of emerging adults with a sibling living with a chronic illness or disability. Mental health and healthcare professionals should consider familial and personal factors that may impact an individual's complete mental health.