Abstract
Objective
The objectives of this project were to (a) examine research evidence on effective childrearing in stepfamilies, (b) draw “best practice” guidelines for effective childrearing in stepfamilies, and (c) identify gaps in what is known about effective childrearing in stepfamilies. Effective childrearing was defined as cognitions, attitudes, and behaviors of stepparents and biological parents that contributed positively to children’s physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being.
Background
The predominant focus of research on stepfamilies has been on investigating stepfamily deficits, problems, and challenges. Recently, more researchers have examined stepfamilies from a resilience perspective in which emphases are placed on processes that contribute to effective development and adaptations to change.
Method
We reviewed 119 studies of effective childrearing in stepfamilies. We examined three bodies of literature: (a) effective parenting in stepfamilies, (b) effective stepparenting in stepfamilies, and (c) effective coparenting in stepfamilies (both within stepfamily households, e.g., between spouses and across stepfamily households, e.g., between ex-spouses).
Results
The results of this project are reported in three articles in this collection. We extract evidence-based principles of effective childrearing in stepfamilies.
Conclusions
Researchers have made great strides in identifying parenting practices that promote positive outcomes for children in stepfamilies, although gaps in our knowledge remain.
Implications
In each article, we offer empirically supported suggestions for stepfamily members and for family professionals who work with them.