THE UNIQUE CHALLENGES OF STEP FAMILIES

* According to step family expert Dr. Patricia Papernow, trying to address step family  issues using a first-time family as a model  is like "trying to navigate the streets of New York using a city map of Boston."

The fact is, step family challenges are not only unique but also greater than those faced by first-time families. In fact, psychologist William Merkel describes the step family as "the most complex, unnatural and difficult set of relationships known to humankind."

If it is that hard, how can a step family ever succeed? The relationships in a step family can be likened to the seams in a patchwork quilt.  Even though the seams are weak when the stitching begins, when completed they can be as strong as the original fabric-if they are sewn carefully.

Let us consider some common challenges that step families face and the steps that have helped many to "stitch" their lives together.  Then, we will meet four step families who have found success.

Next time: Challenge 1: FAILED EXPECTATIONS

The Watchtower, 2012