Supporting Successful Stepfathering: An Integration of the Professional Literature and Online Stepfather Reflections

Abstract

Demographic data tally the prevalent numbers of stepfamilies in 21st century society, with the majority (86%) of stepfamilies involving a stepfather. However, the data also establish these families as at greater risk for dissolution than first-marrieds or remarried couples without children. Reflecting the established dynamics that promote stepfamily sustainability, this article integrates current professional knowledge with stepfathers’ web-based reflections on which clinical service providers can base their intervention strategies to facilitate positive stepfather experience and stepfamily success (n = 77).