Abstract
Participants (n = 33) with a sibling diagnosed with a mental disorder completed the Inventory of Parent and Peer Attachment (IPPA). Analysis of perceived quality of attachment scores after the diagnosis of their siblings showed statistically significant lower attachment scores with maternal figures compared with scores before the diagnosis. There was no statistically significant change in perceived quality of attachment scores with paternal figures. Possible explanations of these findings are explored including the role mothers play in caring for their mentally ill children and its impact on the well siblings. Implication for future research and therapy are discussed.