Green-Eyed (Step)Monsters: Parental Figures’ Perceptions of Jealousy in the Stepfamily

Stepfamilies are complex structures made up of multiple relationships and family subsystems. Although this relational complexity is ripe for the development of jealousy, previous research has focused primarily on romantic relationships. This study explores parental figures’ perceptions of jealousy in stepfamily relationships. Twenty-one in-depth interviews revealed four key themes: strategic framing of jealousy experiences, increased levels of uncertainty and fear, anger and wishes of ill-will toward ex-relationship partners, and the central role that children play in jealousy-related family conflicts. Coping strategies reported by participants revealed a dialectical tension between confrontation and avoidance. Implications for addressing jealousy in the stepfamily are discussed.