Povzetek: V prispevku predstavljamo izsledke empiričnih raziskav, ki so proučile psihosocialno delovanje sorojencev otrok s posebnimi potrebami (PP) ter podajamo smernice za obravnavo sorojencev po principih vedenjsko-kognitivne terapije (VKT). V splošnem se kaže, da se večina sorojencev uspešno prilagodi na odraščanje v družini, ki ima otroka s PP, se pa ti v primerjavi z normativnimi sorojenci srečujejo z dodatnimi izzivi in težavami, kot so večja mera prevzemanja odgovornosti v družini, težave v interakcijah z vrstniki in okolico. Pri nekaterih se tako razvijejo težave v psihosocialnem prilagajanju. Določeni programi za obravnavo sorojencev otrok s PP že obstajajo, vendar so, kot predstavljamo v prispevku, predvsem podporne narave, njihova učinkovitost pa je slabše empirično podprta. Glede na vsebino izzivov in težav, s katerimi se spoprijemajo sorojenci, tako predlagamo obravnavo po principih VKT ter konkretne tehnike za delo.
Abstract:In this article, we present the empirical findings on psychosocial adjustment of siblings of children with special needs, as well as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and its techniques as a potential treatment choice. We conclude that most siblings adjust rather well to having a brother/sister with special needs. Still, they are dealing with more challenges and difficulties than siblings of children with typical development, such as having a role of a caregiver, or experiencing stigmatizing interactions with their peers or others, some also develop psychological and/or adjustment problems. There have been some sibling support programs, but little research has been conducted to address their efficacy, and the current findings are contradictory. Considering the challenges the siblings are facing, we believe CBT is a reasonable treatment option.