Glass Child Syndrome: Overlooked Or Never Prioritized

Every family member has a role to play, and it is not always positive. While you may not be able to see these dynamics you can observe them in movies and series quite well. For example, every on-screen family has a troublemaker, an intelligent kid and one who is out of the way. Often the parent’s attention would be on the kid who they were more worried about whether academically or socially. But what happens to the child who didn’t need so much attention?

The term "glass child" refers to the siblings of children with chronic illnesses or disabilities. Often overlooked in the caregiving dynamic, these children may feel invisible, unheard, and undervalued. They may experience a range of emotions, from guilt and resentment to sadness and anxiety. The constant focus on their siblings' needs can lead to feelings of isolation and a diminished sense of self-worth. The impact of being a glass child can be significant. These children may struggle with emotional regulation, leading to behavioral issues or withdrawal.

Kiara Jain, Lifestyle Coach and Founder at Mindful Living tells us that tells us, “A glass child may want approval from the parents, and this may lead them to be anxious, and sometimes introverts. As mentioned above, they may either act out or become very quiet. depending upon the nature of the child. They may also be over nurturing due to the fact that they didn’t have anyone to look after them and took care of their emotional needs from a young age. Such children may experience anxiety, depression and an inability to express themselves.”

They may also experience academic difficulties due to stress and lack of attention. Additionally, the constant pressure to be perfect and supportive can hinder their own personal growth and development.

Chronic diseases, defined by the CDC as conditions lasting over a year and requiring ongoing medical attention or limiting daily activities, can significantly impact the mental health of entire families. When a child is diagnosed with a chronic illness, parents often experience increased stress and anxiety. This emotional burden can extend to siblings, who may also face a range of mental health challenges.

Ms. Kiran explains, “it greatly impacts their personal life has they may experience the inability to express themselves, often being misunderstood. they may also be overly ambitious at the workplace.”

Research suggests that siblings of children with chronic illnesses are at a higher risk of experiencing anxiety, depression, and social difficulties. They may worry about their sibling's future and struggle to cope with the emotional demands of the situation. To better understand the long-term effects of having a sibling with a chronic illness, more research is needed. Future studies should include larger sample sizes and control groups to provide more conclusive evidence.

According to Ms. Jain, “One of the main issues for a glass child is the inability to communicate themselves as they sometimes feel as if nobody is listening to them in their adult life. Effective communication would be being present and active with this individual in all forms of communication. Be it verbal or non-verbal, accepting them unconditionally, therapy, be compassionate and treat them with utmost kindness.”

To support glass children, it's essential to prioritize their emotional well-being. Open and honest communication is key. Create a safe space where they can express their feelings without judgment. Dedicate one-on-one time to strengthen your bond and show your love and support. Encourage healthy coping mechanisms, such as hobbies, exercise, and mindfulness practices. If needed, consider seeking professional help from therapists or counselors who specialize in working with children and families facing similar challenges.

Mental health treatment can be a valuable tool for glass children. Therapy can provide a safe space for them to process their emotions, develop coping strategies, and build resilience. Family therapy can also be beneficial, as it can help improve communication and strengthen family bonds. It's important to find a therapist who is experienced in working with children and adolescents, and who can create a supportive and understanding environment.