The Sibling Relationship After Acquired Brain Injury : Family Dynamics Across the Lifespan

This important book gives a voice to the lived experience of siblings and family members when one sibling has an acquired brain injury (ABI). ABI is associated with a range of physical, cognitive, behavioural and personality changes, many of which will be lifelong. Penelope Analytis examines how this condition affects the sibling relationship. Although siblings play an important role in our sense of identity, development and wellbeing, this relationship has been largely overlooked in the context of rehabilitation.

Combining research with stories of siblings’ experiences of life after ABI, this book explores how siblings seek to continue their relationship across the lifespan and make sense of the impact of ABI. It looks at the concept of "post-traumatic growth" within the context of ABI and explores siblings’ perceptions of growth after ABI, including shaping their life priorities, family relationships and values. It includes the perspectives of siblings themselves who have an ABI, recognising them as active members of this unique relationship, and of siblings of people with an ABI.

This is valuable reading for siblings and families impacted by ABI and professionals working with them who would like to better understand how to support siblings, as well as students in neuropsychology and related fields.