Impacts of autism in the fraternal subsystem from adult siblings' perspective/Repercussoes do autismo no subsistema fraterno na perspectiva de irmaos adultos

Autism is a clinical condition with early onset that compromises the process of human development, especially in communication and socialization areas. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to understand the impacts of having an autistic sibling on the life course of adult subjects. A qualitative exploratory research with a transversal design was carried out. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews conducted individually with four adults with autistic siblings. The results indicated that the fraternal relationship was affected by having a sibling with autism, influencing personal choices and traits of the respondents, besides demanding a specific and lifelong routine care. It is concluded that bothers and sisters of individuals with autism need support to cope with it. Psychology can contribute to expand family support groups and services, especially in terms of the sibling's perspective.