Making It as a Stepparent: New Roles/New Rules

Based on interviews with hundreds of remarried women and men and theirchildren, this highly recommended guide provides a compassionateexploration of the dynamics of stepfamilies. Reflecting the growing realizationthat, in the realm of stepparenting, romance and good intentions are nosubstitute for preparation and communication, Making It as a Stepparentrealistically acknowledges the fears, doubts, and difficulties that affect thestepparenting situation as it offers practical help and insight into the manyaccompanying challenges and rewards. Whether discussing money matters,visitation rights, the use of family names, discipline, sexual tensions, thepressure to "love," or the "instant parent" syndrome, the voices of thestepfamily members interviewed resonate long after the book is put down.Stepparents cannot help but recognize their own disappointments and joys inthese stories. All readers will find Making It as a Stepparent full of wise counsel and needed reassurance.

Claire Berman is director of public education for the Child Welfare League of America and past president of the Stepfamily Association of America. She is the author of three previous books and writes and lectures widely on family issues.