From 2019 to 2025, we conducted a study comparing the effectiveness of the SIBS program with a 12-week waiting list. In total, 288 families participated, and were randomly assigned to either the SIBS intervention or a wait-list group. Everyone who was initially placed on the waiting list was offered SIBS afterwards. 

The results showed that siblings of children with chronic disorders experienced better mental health and better communication with their parents after participating in SIBS, compared to the wait-list group. Although the differences between the groups were small and not statistically significant, they were comparable to the effects typically reported for preventive measures. 

You can read more about the study here. 

The SIBS-RCT was carried out at Lovisenberg Hospital (Oslo), Innlandet Hospital, Telemark Hospital, Østfold Hospital, St. Olavs Hospital (Trondheim), and in community healthcare centres in the municipalities of Asker and Lillestrøm. 

The study was funded by the Research Council of Norway. 

We are now working on several publications from the SIBS-RCT, including studies on: 

• Risk and protective factors in siblings 

• Long-term effects up to 12 months after completion of the SIBS