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This study explored psychological adjustment and sibling relationships of siblings of children with lifelimiting conditions (LLCs), expanding on previous research by defining LLCs using a systematic classification of these conditions.

Thirtynine siblings participated, aged 3–16 years. Parents completed measures of siblings' emotional and behavioural difficulties, quality of life, sibling relationships and impact on families and siblings. Sibling and family adjustment and relationships were compared with population norms, where available, and to a matched comparison group of siblings of children with autistic spectrum disorder (ASD), as a comparable ‘high risk’ group.

LLC siblings presented significantly higher levels of emotional and behavioural difficulties, and lower quality of life than population norms. Their difficulties were at levels comparable to siblings of children with ASD. A …