Stability and Change in the Experiences of Parents, Stepparents and Adolescents in Stepfamilies

Abstract

This study investigated the stability over time of themes in the experiences of biological parents, stepparents and adolescents in stepfamilies. Twelve adolescents, ten stepparents, and nine biological parents from ten stepfamilies that participated in a qualitative study completed follow-up questionnaires that sought to determine if the themes found in the earlier study were still present in their stepfamilies four years later. The results indicated areas that remained stable over time and areas of positive change and adjustment. The results also suggested the need for further research about the specific factors that shape adjustment to stepfamilies.

Key Words:

• Stepfamilies
• stepparents
• adolescents in stepfamilies
• parenting in stepfamilies
• stepfamily adjustment