A Comparison of Clinical and Empirical Literature on Children in Stepfamilies

The purpose of this study was to review the literature on stepchildren and compare clinical or applied work to empirical research in the area. A total of 114 empirical studies and clinical references were reviewed. Comparisons were made on a number of dimensions, namely, theoretical approaches, methodology, types of stepfamilies, issues and dependent variables examined, other variables considered, and conclusions drawn. There was little congruence in the foci of studies by researchers and clinicians. Implications of this lack of congruence are discussed.