Stepmothering: Myth and Realities

Abstract

Although the high divorce and remarriage rates have created a concomitant increase in the number of stepfamilies, little is known about this family form—especially the stepmother family. This article reports on an exploratory study of the roles, difficulties, and satisfactions of fifty-one step-mothers in relation to the development of family relationships and family unity. Both quantitative and qualitative methods were used in the research. In addition, major concepts from role theory, family systems theory, and the family life cycle approach contributed to the objective exploration of the subject. The author concludes that the myth of the wicked stepmother may be dispelled if women are presented with information to help them successfully develop the role of stepmother.