Siblings and Eating Disorders

The aim of this chapter is to synthesize the experiences of siblings of people with eating disorders by building from the existing literature and an international survey of sibling’s lived experienceSiblingslived experienceLived experience and to make recommendations about how siblings might be supported. Numerous profound interpersonal effects emerge within a relationship with someone with an eating disorder. Siblings share an affiliation with one another and constitute one of the longest and most enduring relationships across the lifespan. Siblings share developmental processes, including the formation of identity, establishing independence from the parent unit, developing social skills, and can provide a vital source of emotional support during adolescence and throughout the lifespan. Healthy siblings can provide an important role lending support alongside that offered by their parents and sustain hope and motivation by being a positive role model for recovery. However, the needs of siblings themselves are manifold and often overlooked. In this chapter the sibling voiceSibling voice is heard and there are many suggestions as to how further research and development can be used to tailor available support for their needs.