Date of Publication

4-2025

Document Type

Master's Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Psychology Major in Clinical Psychology

Subject Categories

Clinical Psychology

College

College of Liberal Arts

Department/Unit

Psychology

Thesis Advisor

Clarissa F. Delariarte

Defense Panel Chair

Ron R. Resurreccion

Abstract/Summary

The COVID-19 pandemic affected the lives of people with special needs and their families worldwide. Families of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), in particular, were found to experience more distress compared to other disabilities before and during the pandemic. Among the members of the family, the siblings of individuals with Autism (SOIAs) are often overlooked. Studies show that they also experience a set of challenges that should be further explored. With the dawn of the post-pandemic, SOIAs also went through a transition. The current study utilized an Interpretative Phenomenological Approach to understand the lived experience of adult siblings of individuals with ASD transitioning from the COVID-19 pandemic to the post-pandemic. Semi-structured interviews were conducted and a thematic analysis of the responses was done. Two superordinate themes were found: (1) Kapatid Lamang Ako, and (2) Kapatid Pa Rin Ako. Five subordinate themes were also found: Ako, and Ako Naman, which fell under the first superordinate theme. Responsibilidad Ko Para Sa Kapatid Ko, Bukas Namin, and Lugar Ko, fell under the second superordinate theme. The family systems theory and the concept of the tagasalo role were discussed in relation to the study’s findings. Future interventions may benefit from involving other family members and addressing sibling-sibling and sibling-parent dynamics. Approaches such as family systems therapy, art therapy, support groups, and programs focused on knowledge acquisition and skill development may be incorporated into intervention efforts.

Abstract Format

html

Language

English

Format

Electronic

Keywords

Autism spectrum disorders--Philippines; Siblings of people with disabilities--Philippines; COVID-19 Pandemic, 2020-2023

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Embargo Period

4-22-2026

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Available for download on Wednesday, April 22, 2026

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