Counseling Blended Families

Abstract

In U.S. society, the term step, when combined with mother, father, child or family, is often used to indicate abnormal or substandard. By the year 2000, however, stepfamilies (also known as blendedfamilies) will be the norm-more than 50% of U.S. families. This article explores significant unique blended-family qualities identified by recent research and implications for assessment and intervention.