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The invisible connection: A qualitative analysis of the experience of support-seeking siblings of individuals with emotion dysregulation
  • +2
  • Sarah E. Huffman,
  • Marie-Paule de Valdivia,
  • Larry Davidson,
  • Emily Cooney,
  • Joanna L. Watson
Sarah E. Huffman
University of Massachusetts Amherst Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences

Corresponding Author:sarah.huffman8@gmail.com

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Marie-Paule de Valdivia
National Education Alliance for Borderline Personality Disorder
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Larry Davidson
Yale University
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Emily Cooney
University of Otago Wellington
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Joanna L. Watson
no affiliation
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Abstract

Objectives: Nearly 80% of children within the U.S. live with a sibling, and siblings exert a unique and typically lifelong influence on one another. Past research supports an influence between psychopathology of one individual and the psychological functioning of their siblings. Recently this relationship has been examined in the context of borderline personality disorder (BPD), such that siblings of individuals with BPD are at heightened risk of developing psychiatric disorders and engaging in problematic behaviors. Beyond the influence siblings have on one another, there is growing work demonstrating that many siblings of individuals with mental health difficulties face unique challenges in terms of balancing care for themselves and care for their siblings, and yet don’t have resources available for these specific challenges. Methods: The current study utilizes written statements from applications submitted to the Family Connections TM program by siblings of those with emotion regulation (ER) difficulties or BPD. A qualitative analysis is utilized to examine statements written by these sibling applicants, and salient themes are discussed. Results/Conclusion: We hope to clarify the experiences of siblings within these dyads and make a case for increased opportunities for these siblings to access care and support, in order to improve outcomes and support for both siblings.
13 Mar 2024Submitted to Journal of Clinical Psychology
13 Mar 2024Submission Checks Completed
13 Mar 2024Assigned to Editor
25 Apr 2024Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending
19 Aug 2024Editorial Decision: Revise Major
13 Nov 20241st Revision Received
18 Nov 2024Submission Checks Completed
18 Nov 2024Assigned to Editor
18 Nov 2024Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending
31 Dec 2024Reviewer(s) Assigned