Blended Families and Divorce

Blended families is the term used for household units comprised of a mixture of relatives from different origins, including stepparents and siblings, half-siblings, and similar types of relations.

With rates of divorce and second or third marriages on the rise, the phrase “You’re not my REAL dad” has achieved the status of major cultural cliché. While the stereotype of the abusive stepparent or disrespectful stepchild is an unfair one, especially given the vast number of fully function, loving, and supportive blended families, there is no question that sometimes these pairings present unique challenges and strains within the home.

Fortunately, there are many resources available to those who face such difficult situations. Many licensed practicing psychologists specialize in fields related to blended families, working to bridge the gaps and overcome the barriers between people who may not have necessarily chosen to live under the same roof.

Family therapy can be helpful both between new couples, new parent-child relations, and step or half-siblings coming to terms with the circumstances at hand. Therapists work to open lines of communication that might otherwise remain closed, fostering silent or sometimes explosive resentment.

In addition to these private settings, group counseling and therapy can help remind family members remember that they are not alone in their struggles.

Contact Us

For more information on issues concerning blended families, and to find out what you can do if you or someone you love is facing difficult times due to such a situation, contact the experienced Austin divorce lawyers at the law offices of Slater, Kennon & Pugh Ltd.LLP today by calling 512-472-2431.