Understanding Glass Child Syndrome By Madison Voorhies
24 OCTOBER 2025 | NOLAFAMILY.COM she says. “We are supposed to be perfect. When someone asks us how Many siblings of children with special needs grow up as the “easy ones:” self- sufficient, high-achieving, and rarely demanding attention. “Naturally, we are conditioned not to have any problems,” W hen a child in the family has medical, developmental, or behavioral needs that require extra care, parents often find themselves pouring almost all of their time, energy, and resources into that child. While this is natural and necessary, it can leave their other children feeling overlooked, not because they are fragile, but because they become—in many ways—invisible. These siblings are sometimes referred to as “glass children,” a term that describes the experience of being seen through. Alicia Maples, a former glass child, popularized the phrase in a 2010 TEDx talk, where she explained that “glass” doesn’t mean weak; It means transparent.
we’re doing, the answer is always, ‘I’m doing fine.’” Even when a glass child seems to manage everything perfectly, the hidden emotional weight of growing up in a high-needs household can quietly shape their childhood. This often means taking on responsibilities far beyond their age and navigating complex family dynamics, sometimes without the support they need. GROWING UP TOO SOON: COSTS & STRENGTHS Research shows that growing up as a “glass child” can carry real emotional costs. A 2024 integrated review of 60 studies published in the Clinical Child and Family Psychology Review found consistent patterns of “parentification,” where siblings take on adult responsibilities too early, along with emotional and behavioral struggles. Similarly, a large U.S. study reported that
siblings of children with developmental disabilities are more likely than their peers to develop depression and other mental health conditions. The risks are particularly evident in families with children facing a chronic illness. For example, research in pediatric oncology shows that siblings often struggle with anxiety, disrupted schooling, and feelings of isolation. Despite these challenges, many glass children develop remarkable strengths. They are often empathetic, resilient, and highly capable, traits born from learning how to adapt and care for others. But as they say, every rose has its thorn. In adulthood, former glass children may find themselves overachieving, struggling to set boundaries, or feeling guilty when prioritizing their own needs. The very habits that once kept the family afloat can lead to burnout if left untreated.
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