The social functioning of siblings of children with cancer: a multi-informant investigation

Abstract

Objective: This study examined social functioning among siblings of children with cancer.

Method: A case-control design was applied to school- and home-based data from multiple informants (peers, teachers, mothers, and self). Social reputation and peer acceptance within the classroom was compared for 87 siblings (aged 8-16 years) and 256 demographically matched peers. Self-perceptions of peer relationships and parent-reported social competence were examined among 67 siblings and 67 matched comparisons.

Results: Peer reports (N = 1,633) indicated no differences between siblings and comparisons for social reputation, number of friendships, reciprocated friendships, or peer acceptance. Self-reported prosocial behavior and teacher-reported likability were higher for siblings than comparisons. Self-reported loneliness, friendship quality, and perceived social support did not differ between groups. Mothers reported less involvement in activities and poorer school performance for siblings than comparisons.

Conclusions: Peer relationships of siblings of children with cancer are similar to classmates, though they experience small decrements in activity participation and school performance.

Keywords: childhood cancer; peer relationships; siblings; social functioning.