A scoping review of sibling caregiving in communication research and future directions

Abstract This scoping review assesses the current state and characteristics of sibling caregiving research, which has been historically understudied in the communication field. Eligible articles included in the final sample needed to be (1) published in communication journals or interdisciplinary journals that frequently publish communication research, (2) primary research studies utilizing participants, and (3) accessibly published by March 2025. Following the five-step scoping review methodology, 21 total articles taken from one NCA journal, three other communication journals, and four interdisciplinary journals comprise my sample. I categorized each article in terms of its paradigm, theory (if any), and definition of sibling caregiving (i.e., the type of care provided and the care context). Three articles used homegrown communication theories, 11 used interdisciplinary theories, and seven were atheoretical. Regarding paradigm, 10 articles used the interpretive paradigm, 10 used the post-positivist paradigm, and one used both. Seven articles were clear about their definition of sibling caregiving by referring to specific tasks, and 14 referred to broad caregiving activities. This review concludes with opportunities for future directions for communication scholars that include clearly defining sibling caregiving, expanding the use of communication theory within studies examining sibling caregiving, and broadening the scope of sibling caregiving research.