The experiences of having a sibling with an eating disorder: A systematic review of the literature.

Objective: Research on carers in the context of eating disorders (EDs) has predominantly focused on parents and offspring, overlooking the adverse effects EDs have on the lives of siblings. This study aims to shift the paradigm by reviewing the literature in this area. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first review of the literature that broadly captured the lived experiences of siblings without being limited by specific search terms such as coping strategies and levels of psychopathology. Method: Six databases (ERIC, MEDLINE, PsycInfo, Pubmed, Scopus, and Web of Science) were searched using predetermined search strings. Quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods studies were included as long as they were focused on siblings' experiences of having a brother or sister with an ED. No publication date restrictions were applied, and thorough quality assessments were initially carried out before a qualitative analysis of the data was conducted. Results: Twenty‐one studies were eligible for inclusion, thematic synthesis yielded six core themes, and 17 subthemes related to the inter‐ and intrapersonal impacts of the ED on siblings' lives. These themes and sub‐themes include fragmentation in family relationships, parentification, and competition and jealousy. Conclusion: It is of utmost importance to gain a better understanding of siblings' experiences and needs in relation to EDs. The findings are discussed in relation to the existing literature and theoretical and clinical implications, for example, tailored approaches accounting for siblings' experiences. Highlights: Eating disorders (EDs) impact many areas of siblings' lives causing immense, inescapable disruption leading siblings to feel less important than their sibling with the ED. This can be due to receiving less attention from their parents, other people continuously asking about their SED and not them, and significant life events being overshadowed by the ED and their SED.The lacking professional support is in direct contrast to their wish to receive more help from professionals.It is essential for professionals to take a proactive approach to identify siblings' needs and offer them more tailored support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]