This week we have been learning about the struggles of blended families. I’ve seen in my life examples of blended families that did better at others. One of the big things i noticed is that it takes a lot of time for the new family to fall into a routine that is comfortable.
Overall blended families are difficult because the structure of the family system has changed, often drastically. Because of the change it takes about two years to deal with and find a new normal. Allowing time to take its course is often frustrating and discouraging for the family. The tasks and purposes of the family have also changed. No longer are two people bringing children into this world and starting to create a family, but two families are being meshed together for convenience, security, need of love and intimacy.
Four important things to remember is that it will take about two years to reach normal again, the biological parents should do the disciplining at first, it is the step parent’s job to offer support and parents much present a unified front after making decisions together.
Katherine McCombs 