Surviving and Thriving in Stepfamily Relationships

This book is an essential resource for stepfamily members and the professionals who support them, offering a comprehensive roadmap to navigate the unique challenges of stepfamily life.

Written by Dr. Patricia L. Papernow, this second edition of Surviving and Thriving in Stepfamily Relationships weaves together five decades of clinical experience, the latest research, and many diverse clinical approaches to provide evidence-based strategies for stepfamilies at every stage of their journey. This book offers an accessible framework to help families and professionals understand why stepfamilies differ so fundamentally from first-time nuclear families – and how to address the confusion and conflict that can arise. At the heart of the book are five predictable challenges that can make stepfamily life unexpectedly complex. Dr. Papernow shares best practices for meeting each of these challenges on three levels: practical guidance for what’s “normal” and what works, skills for building connection, and more intensive family-of-origin work when needed.

The book’s multi-level approach makes it an invaluable guide for both stepfamily members and a wide range of professionals, including therapists, educators, clergy, and legal or medical practitioners. Combining concrete strategies, real-life stories, and current research, this book equips readers with the tools to help stepfamilies not just survive, but thrive.