From a Traditional Family to a Queer Step‐Family: Challenges and Resources of Family Transition Among Gay and Lesbian Parents and Their Children in Belgium. A Systemic Approach

ABSTRACT The present study aimed to explore the transition to the stepfamily system, focusing on challenges and resources faced by Belgian same‐gender stepfamilies in which one partner had at least one child from a previous heterosexual relationship. The study included interviews with 23 adults (12 lesbian women and 11 gay men, all cisgender and White/European) who were either a biological parent ( n = 12, M age = 40) or stepparent ( n = 11, M age = 33) of 14 children (M age = 13) in a same‐gender parent family composition. Three core themes were identified from parents' narratives: negotiating the visibility of a new stepfamily configuration between coming‐out and concealment; social circle's reactions to family visibility, open discrimination and legal obstacles: stressors and challenges in transitioning to a same‐gender stepfamily configuration; support and recognition: ‘adjusted’ relationships in same‐gender stepfamilies. The process of transitioning to a lesbian/gay identity following a heterosexual relationship involving children poses unique challenges, as the reactions of others may play a critical role in shaping the family dynamics of same‐gender stepfamilies. Scholars and professionals should account for these factors when working with same‐gender stepfamilies, addressing the different strategies used by each family member and integrating the various definitions of family provided by parents, stepparents and children.