Effective coparenting in stepfamilies: Empirical evidence of what works

Abstract

AbstractObjectiveThe purpose of this review is to examine research evidence about effective childrearing of stepchildren by coparents in stepfamilies (i.e., childrearing that contributes to children's physical, cognitive, and emotional well‐being).BackgroundChildrearing after parental repartnering is likely to involve coparenting within stepfamily households (i.e., by parents and stepparents), across stepfamily households (i.e., by biological parent dyads), and a combination of intra‐ and inter‐household coparenting subsystems. Effective coparenting of children in stepfamilies benefits individual, relational, and stepfamily well‐being and effective family functioning.MethodWe reviewed 58 studies in which empirical evidence of effective childrearing of stepchildren by coparents in stepfamilies was obtained.ResultsChildren in stepfamilies fare better when coparents work collaboratively in focusing on children's well‐being, managing conflicts, being careful when communicating to children and to coparents, and keeping children out of parental issues. Coparenting within stepfamily households works when coparents agree on childrearing rules and roles, communicate clearly, and engage in parenting styles that emphasize high warmth. Step‐household coparents also foster children's well‐being by creating cohesive stepfamily dynamics and modifying expectations. Few researchers studied coparental triads that include both parents and a stepparent.ConclusionsStepfamily members benefit from effective coparenting.ImplicationsEffective childrearing by stepfamily coparent subsystems is complex, but a key is focusing on children's well‐being.