A Model for Stepfamily Development

Many stepfamilies implicitly adopt family roles based on a model of the biological nuclear family, which often leads to problematic cycles of interaction that continue to block the development of real intimacy. The proposed solution to these problems is the use of a concrete, step-by-step model of stepfamily development that is distinct from the biological family model. The model proposed consists of a number of stages and tasks, including setting goals, parental limit-setting, stepparent bonding and blending family rules. Exercises found helpful to families in implementing each task or stage are discussed, as is the use of short-term couples' groups with educational and counseling components. Recommendations for planning intervention programs and further research are presented.