The term "glass child" describes the experience of growing up as the sibling of a person with a mental or physical disability. Often, the needs of the sibling with disabilities can take precedence, leaving the "glass child" feeling invisible or as though their wants and needs are secondary.
Alicia Meneses Maples, who coined the term in a TEDx talk, shared her own experience of growing up with two younger brothers, one diagnosed with severe combined immunodeficiency and the other with autism. She described feeling overlooked as her parents tended to her brothers' needs, leaving her to navigate her own emotions and struggles largely on her own.
While there hasn't been much research on the effects of being a "glass child," individuals like Meneses Maples and others are sharing their stories to bring awareness to this unique experience and offer support to those who may be going through similar situations. They aim to shed light on the challenges faced by siblings of individuals with disabilities and provide guidance to families in similar circumstances.
The role of a "glass child" can be complex, often leading to feelings of guilt, responsibility, and a desire to overachieve or be hyper-independent. However, it's crucial for adults to recognize the needs of these siblings and ensure they receive support and validation for their experiences.
As more attention is brought to the experiences of "glass children," there's hope for increased understanding and support for these individuals and their families. Through sharing their stories and advocating for research and awareness, "glass children" like Meneses Maples are making a difference in the lives of others who may feel unseen or unheard.
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