Predicting Parenting and Stepparenting Difficulties among Newly Remarried Parents

Abstract

ABSTRACT Positive parent-child relationships in cases of remarriage are associated with more harmonious stepfamily relationships; however, little research has focused on factors influencing parenting difficulties in early remarriage. In this study, we examine factors that are associated with parenting and stepparenting difficulties for newly remarried biological parents and stepparents from a family systems theory perspective. Regression analyses indicate that greater perceived marital stability was associated with fewer parenting difficulties for all parental roles, while premarital cohabitation was associated with fewer stepparenting difficulties for stepmothers. With the exception of biological mothers, number of dependent children was associated with greater parenting difficulties for all parental roles. Practical implications are discussed.