The stepmother’s role often is ambiguous and underappreciated, and frequently it carries unrealistic expectations. The book answers women’s concerns and questions, including: How can I be a caretaker and a key emotional connector in the family if the children don’t accept my influence? How shoud I cope with children who are confused about their family and torn between loyalty to their biological mother and me? When should I step back in conflicts and when should I insist that my husband stand up for me? In addition it addresses the spiritual and emotional climate of the home, providing perspective and guidelines to help stepmothers and their families thrive.
From the Back Cover
You Can Be a Smart Stepmom
In today’s complicated stepfamily, the stepmom often doesn’t know where to turn for help. Let stepfamily expert Ron Deal and experienced stepmom Laura Petherbridge show you how to survive and thrive as a stepmom, including:
How to be a positive influence on children who are torn between loyalty to their biological mom and to you.
What to do when you feel ostracized, rejected, or lonely.
When and how to step back during conflict and let your husband take the lead.
How to handle holidays, adult stepchildren, between-home communication, and much more.
Here is the hope, encouragement, and practical information to assure you that you are not alone in the stepmom journey.