This exploratory study attempted to provide newly formed stepfamilies the tools with which to
build a cohesive stepfamily environment by engaging the parents in a task-centered group.
Fifteen middle-class couples committed to remarriage were self-referred from a suburban
setting. A preliminary investigation showed that the intervention created significant improvement in distress, social support, and coping skills. Results suggest that using preventive groups
may be an important component of social work practice with stepfamilies. The article also
discusses the need for psychometrically sound stepfamily assessment methods.
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