What are the lived experiences of siblings of children and young people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)? An interpretive phenomenological analysis

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a prevalent diagnosis affecting many children and young people (CYP) in the UK. Despite this, there is little previous research relating directly to CYP’s experiences of having a sibling with ADHD. Having a sibling with a disability or a mental health need can influence familial relationships and emotional well-being. In particular, sibling relationships can be affected and characterised by increased conflict. The purpose of the current research was to explore the lived experience of CYP with a sibling with a confirmed diagnosis of ADHD, seeking to understand positive experiences and challenges. Listening to and valuing participants’ views was at the core of this research. Six participants aged eleven to 18 took part in semi-structured interviews. Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) was used to interpret participants’ experiences looking at individual experience and shared meaning across the data. Findings suggest CYP with a sibling with ADHD have positive experiences but there are several challenges and threats to their sibling relationship and their own emotional well-being. The findings are presented and used to inform ideas for future research and suggestions are made for professional practice