Examination of Self-Esteem Levels of Individuals with and without Special-Needs Siblings
Abstract
This study aims to examine whether having a sibling with special needs is associated with self-esteem levels among individuals aged 14–20. Conducted using a quantitative causal-comparative design, the study included 200 high school and university students selected through criterion sampling: 100 participants who had a sibling with special needs (SSN-present) and 100 participants who did not (SSN-absent). Data were collected via a Personal Information Form developed by the researcher and the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale–Short Form (RSES-SF). Analyses were performed in SPSS 22.0 using an independent-samples t-test, two-factor (factorial) ANOVA, and ANCOVA. The findings indicate a statistically significant difference between the groups, such that the SSN-present group’s mean self-esteem score differed significantly from that of the SSN-absent group. Self-esteem scores varied according to educational level, parental education level, and household income; however, no significant differences were observed with respect to gender or number of siblings. Within the SSN-present group, no significant differences in self-esteem were found in relation to the sibling’s gender, disability category, educational attendance status, type of educational institution, or level of need for assistance. By contrast, a significant difference was identified with respect to assuming caregiving responsibilities for the sibling. Overall, having a sibling with special needs may constitute a risk context that can adversely affect self-esteem. Conversely, protective factors—such as socioeconomic resources and parental education—may strengthen individuals’ self-esteem levels.
Keywords
References
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Details
Primary Language
English
Subjects
Personal Development
Journal Section
Research Article
Publication Date
April 30, 2026
Submission Date
January 2, 2026
Acceptance Date
March 30, 2026
Published in Issue
Year 2026 Volume: 14 Number: 1