Adapting to becoming part of a stepfamily is a huge change for children and teenagers, and can be a stressful process for all, sometimes disrupting and impacting on family relationships. As a parent, it is crucial that you are able to communicate openly with your children about this change and can negotiate their new roles and responsibilities within the stepfamily.
By Marcus Andrews
General Parenting Family Child & Adolescent
Children and families are remarkably adaptable and resilient to change, as long as there is careful consideration given to the way the change will impact each member of the family.
Adapting to becoming part of a stepfamily is a huge change for children and teenagers, and can be a stressful process for all, sometimes disrupting and impacting on family relationships. As a parent, it is crucial that you are able to communicate openly with your children about this change and can negotiate their new roles and responsibilities within the stepfamily.
If you are part of a stepfamily it may be helpful to:
Remember that adjusting to living in a stepfamily is generally very difficult for children and teenagers. Be patient with them, and with yourself, as you are all adapting to a significant life change.
Marcus Andrews is the founder and director of Life Supports, which was established in 2002. He has extensive professional experience working as a counsellor and family therapist across a broad range of issues. The core component of his role at Life Supports involves the supervision of other counsellors, including secondary consultations. Marcus has worked in many sectors, including private, government, non-profit, health, forensic and community practice.
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