by Dr. Patricia L. Papernow
Taylor & Francis, 1993

Overview

Patricia Papernow draws on interviews with over 100 stepfamily members, up-to-date research, a solid theoretical framework, and an empathic clinical sensibility to present an insightful model of stepfamily development, the Stepfamily Cycle. This details account of the sages of forming a lasting, cohesive group is richly illustrated by stepfamily members’ own stories.

Becoming a Stepfamily describes the developmental challenges involved in building nourishing, reliable relationships between stepparents and stepchildren, in the newly married couple, and between different family groups who come together in a remarried family. Papernow discusses the factors that influence the pace and ease of development, and she provides four full length case studies illustrating the varied paths through the stepfamily cycle to the successful remarried life.

Praise for Becoming a Stepfamily

“I have read over 40 lay and clinical books on stepfamilies and stepparenting since 1979. Becoming a Stepfamily is one of the best ones I have read.  A major plus for this book is the many stepfamily vignettes and quotes Papernow uses to illustrate her points. Another is her way of framing the developmental stages of four kinds of typical stepfamilies. A third plus is Papernow’s insightful sketching of the respective viewpoints and needs of the biological parent and the stepparent in different phases of stepfamily development.”

Peter Gerlach, stepfamily therapist

“Presenting information crucial to the understand of many contemporary American families, Dr. Papernow gives a vivid description of the various stages of stepfamily integration.  Well-written, easy to read, with excellent examples and vignettes, this book deserves a special place in the library of every therapist.” 

John S. Visher, Ph.D., and Emily B. Visher, Ph.D.