The practical and symbolic regulation of multi‐parenthood

Abstract

AbstractIt is assumed that multi‐parenthood continues to be a very minor form of family organisation, even among same‐sex couples. Nevertheless there is a great variety of situations within these minority configurations, which can be characterised by various linkages between couple relationships and parenthood relationships. Moreover, the families in question invent tools and rituals which allow daily situations to be regulated and new family narratives to be constructed. It must be stressed that these inventions require significant material and cultural resources. While practical regulation is fairly similar in the case of all blended families, symbolic regulation is both simpler and more difficult, according to the family configurations involved. Indeed, co‐parenthood avoids the consequences of couples breaking up, which often alters the life of blended families. In contrast, symbolisation requires much imagination. Above all, the absence of any legal recognition of “additional” parents remains a permanent source of insecurity and tension.