Date: 13/03/2024

Format: Virtual

What does sibling disability research have to learn from sociology?

Psychological studies continue to dominate sibling and disability research. The importance of bringing in sociological perspectives to this research area cannot be underestimated. Structural factors, such as poverty and deprivation, so often predict the mental health outcomes of individuals, including the siblings of disabled people. Sociological approaches also support our thinking around the ways that disabled people, siblings, and families, are inextricably interconnected. This connection is almost antithetical to the often hyper-individualistic approach of psychology.

Societal attitudes towards disabled people and carers, and the ableism and discrimination that disabled people face, all contribute to the experiences of siblings and families. These important aspects cannot be fully understood by psychology alone. This symposium brings together expert researchers to discuss the important contributions of sociology to our understanding of the experiences of siblings of disabled people. I am very excited to bring together Dr Shaquinta Richardson, Tom Ryan, Dr Georgia Pavlopolou, and Dr Ariella Meltzer, to discuss this important area.

Dr Nikita Hayden 

Symposium organiser