Factors That Shape Stepparent–Adolescent Interaction

Stepfamily formation involving adolescents presents unique challenges and opportunities, yet factors that shape stepparent–adolescent interaction remain under-explored. This study explored factors that facilitate or obstruct stepparent–adolescent interaction of any kind. Using maximum variation purposive sampling, we conducted in-depth interviews with 18 U.S. emerging adults (ages 18–23) who had lived with a stepparent from age 10 onward. Transcripts were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Adapting the COM-B (capability, opportunity, motivation—behavior) model as a framework, 11 themes were developed: under capability—individual traits (with three subthemes), stepparent allegiance or deference to the resident parent, adolescent loyalty binds, relational ambiguity, and assumed roles and imposed expectations; under opportunity—external social facilitation (with three subthemes), stepparent compensatory and value-add functions, physical proximity and household composition, and shared family labor; and under motivation—adolescent interest in relationship development and stepparent proaction. Findings showcase stepparent–adolescent interaction as an emergent systemic property shaped by intrapersonal, dyadic, household, and broader social factors. The COM-B framework offers professionals a structured approach to assess stepparent–adolescent interactional capability, opportunity, and motivation when supporting stepfamilies. Future research should employ prospective, multi-informant designs to further substantiate identified factors and guide the development of measures for practice and research applications.