Episode Details

Examines the various ways stepfamilies are formed and their key characteristics.The class introduces the four stages of stepfamily development, and describes the communication challenges stepfamilies face with regard to history, labeling, and the ways in which stepfamilies and their members are viewed by society. Discussion offers insights into blended families that include research on the subject and a personal testimonial on becoming a step-mother.
Featured interview: Professor Pamela Cooper (Northwestern University)