The Relationship between Parentification and Psychological Wellbeing of Typically Developed Siblings of Individuals with Autism in Nairobi County, Kenya

Abstract

This study examined the psychological impact of parentification on typically developing siblings (TDS) in households where a child has autism spectrum disorder (ASD), focusing on Nairobi County, Kenya. It explored how TDS perceived their familial roles and how these perceptions related to the degree of parentification they experienced. Additionally, the study investigated the coping mechanisms these siblings adopted in response to their experiences and identified interventions that effectively mitigated the mental and emotional effects of parentification. Participants were recruited from clinics and autism support groups across Nairobi County. A mixed-methods approach was employed, integrating semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and the Ryff Scales of Psychological Well-Being (RPWB) to provide a multidimensional understanding of the phenomenon. Thematic analysis revealed four overarching themes: Loss of the Self, Coping Behind Closed Doors, Support as a Turning Point, and Negotiating Selfhood Amid Responsibility. These themes captured the emotional displacement often felt by TDS, the blend of adaptive and maladaptive coping strategies they employed, the transformative influence of external and familial support, and the complex process of identity negotiation while managing caregiving responsibilities. Findings demonstrated that prolonged emotional and practical caregiving responsibilities significantly shaped TDS’s self-concept and emotional regulation, often resulting in both resilience and psychological strain. This research addressed a crucial gap in the Kenyan context, where little attention has been paid to the psychological well-being of siblings in ASD-affected households. The study’s insights informed recommendations for tailored mental health interventions, family-centered support systems, and inclusive policy frameworks that recognize and respond to the hidden emotional labor of typically developing siblings.