Abstract
ABSTRACT Increasing divorce and remarriage rates among middle and older aged adults has resulted in an uptick of later life stepfamilies (LLSF). Despite these growing numbers, research often focuses on stepfamily development in adolescence, leaving lingering questions about how adult stepchildren navigate this transition, including grappling with uncertainties. Guided by uncertainty management theory, we conducted in-depth, semi-structured interviews with 26 adult stepchildren (ASC). Thematic analysis revealed four primary information acquisition strategies: (a) strategic information seeking, (b) strategic information avoiding, (c) incidental information acquisition, and (d) information ambivalence. Further, ASC’s information acquisition tactics are informed by contextual factors germane to LLSFs (e.g., proximity), vary by degree of intentionally, are collaborative in nature, and are connected to relational implications. Together, our findings result in a conceptual model of LLSF uncertainty management that extends understanding of uncertainty management within family systems.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
