Dear brothers and sisters of people with disabilities: if you've read the testimonies in the dossier devoted to your experience in this issue, perhaps you don't fully agree, or perhaps you have something else to say. Would you be willing to respond to this questionnaire—you can remain anonymous—and share your perspective with us?
Learning About the Disability
- Is your handicapped brother or sister older or younger than you?
- If younger, did his or her birth change family life? If so, how?
Your Relationship With Your Parents
- Do you talk with your parents about your handicapped brother or sister? What do you discuss?
- Are your parents involved with organizations for handicapped young people? Which ones?
- Do you feel that your parents rely heavily on you—for instance, regarding your brother's or sister's future? How do you respond to these expectations?
With Your Non-Handicapped Siblings
- Do you feel that his or her presence has strengthened the bonds between you?
With Your Handicapped Brother or Sister
- How do you participate in his or her education?
- Do you feel a different kind of responsibility toward him or her than toward your other siblings?
- What have you learned from him or her?
With Your Friends
- Has his or her presence created awkwardness when you bring friends home? Why?
- Because of his or her presence, do you have worries or interests different from those of your friends?
Your Outlook on Life
- How has your handicapped brother or sister shaped who you've become—for better or worse?
- Do you think his or her presence has changed the course of your own life (your career, marriage, lifestyle, and so on)?