SIBLING SUPPORT IN PEDIATRIC INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE (IBD)

Abstract

Objective: A supportive family environment is an important predictor of psychological outcomes and medication adherence in pediatric chronic conditions, including IBD. Siblings are a fundamental part of a child's familial and social network, yet little is known about siblings' involvement in IBD care. This ongoing pilot study examines the relationship between healthy siblings' support with IBD care and the quality of life and treatment adherence of children and adolescents with IBD. Method: Participants to date include 12 child and adolescent patients with IBD (83% Crohn's disease) recruited through a Pediatric GI specialty clinic. IBD patients (age range: 11-17 years; M = 13.7) were 58% female, 83% Caucasian, and had well-controlled disease by parent report (75% had not experienced a flare-up in over a year). One healthy sibling (age range: 10-18 years; M = 13.2) from each family was randomly selected for reference; 58% were older than the IBD patient. IBD patients completed measures of IBD-specific quality of life (IMPACT-II), IBD medication adherence (completed conjointly with parent), and sibling support with IBD care. The sibling support measure assessed the IBD patient's perceived frequency of and attitude toward a healthy sibling's involvement in IBD care. Results: Greater frequency of sibling support with IBD care was associated with better overall quality of life (r = .56, p = .06), better body image (r = .57, p < .05), and fewer concerns about IBD treatment (r = .61, p < .05) in IBD patients. IBD patients who reported a positive attitude toward sibling support also reported fewer difficulties with treatment management (r = −.67, p < .05). Conclusion: Preliminary findings suggest that sibling support in IBD care may be associated with higher quality of life and medication adherence in children and adolescents with IBD. Findings may have important implications for family-based interventions in pediatric IBD.