Perceptions of Stepfathers

Abstract

Two separate studies were conducted to compare college students' perceptions of the parental behavior of stepfathers and biological fathers. After reading a brief vignette, the students were asked to rate the parental behavior of an adult, identified as either a stepfather or father and depicted either spanking a child (Study 1) or behaving affectionately toward a child (Study 2). The results of Study 1 indicated a less positive perception of stepfathers carrying out a disciplinary role than of fathers. Stepfathers were perceived as being less affectionate, fair, kind, loving, and likable in this situation, and their disciplinary behavior was seen as less justified and excusable. The results of Study 2, however, indicated that stepfathers were generally not perceived less positively than fathers, although their expressions of affection (e.g., hugging and kissing) were seen as more likely to make their stepchildren feel uncomfortable. These results suggest that stepfathers are not always seen less positively than fathers irrespective of their behavior.