Relationships
Adele Cornish, BSW
After a Parent’s Death
When a biological parent dies, a child may look towards their new stepparent to meet the needs that would normally be fulfilled by the lost parent. As the following example shows, while a stepfather or stepmother may be successful in meeting these needs, they may or may not necessarily experience the same emotional connection as they do with their own children.
Blending After Divorce: If you or your partner been through a divorce, here’s some advice for your blended family
I get many stepparents telling me their partner wants their blended family to function in the same way a first marriage does where both biological parents are present. Having gone through a broken relationship, they hope to recreate the experience of a nuclear family again by expecting their partner, the new stepmom or stepfather to fulfil all the roles and duties of a biological parent with the same passion.
Thinking of Leaving or Divorce?
When the going gets tough, it’s tempting to get going, but is it the right thing to do?
Blended Family Wellness Test
To find out what state your blended family is currently in, answer the following 10 questions either:
“Yes” or “No”
Preparing to Blend?
Blending two families a process that takes time (seven years on average). There is no such thing as “instant love” between those in a step relationship. Family members need plenty of time to get used to their role and the expectations within the new family unit.