Understanding the Experiences of Husbands in Step-Couples

Abstract

The literature on stepfamily functioning pays far more attention to issues of stepparenting than issues of marital success. However, the marital bond is equally important to support stepparenting success and provide the couple with a solid foundation for the family once the stepchildren have departed. To date, any literature concerning stepfamily marriage seems concentrated on the experience of wives in stepfamilies, relegating the experiences of husbands to an afterthought. In an attempt to redress this oversight, this article provides insights into the challenges facing husbands in stepfamilies, with implications for clinicians seeking to strengthen the marital relationship in stepfamilies.

Keywords

stepfamily stepfamily husbands stepfamily marital functioning

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