Degree Date

6-2025

Document Type

Dissertation - Public Access

Degree Name

Psy.D. Doctor of Clinical Psychology

Academic Discipline

Clinical Psychology

First Advisor

Emese Vitalis, Ph.D.

Second Advisor

Leah Horvath, Ph.D.

Third Advisor

Bethany Cook, Psy.D.

Abstract

The transition to a blended family is an emotional and psychological adjustment for bio-childfree individuals. The present qualitative study investigated how self-concept and emotional adjustment of bio-childfree stepmothers change when they become members of their new family. With a phenomenological approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 female participants who were bio-childfree, in a committed relationship with a partner with children, and had cohabited for one year or more. The study aimed to find out how these women cope in their new role, their emotional adjustment to their transition, and the influences that impact their well-being. Thematic analysis of interviews revealed five prevailing themes: Loss of identity and autonomy, in which participants struggled to cope with a loss of self-concept and a loss of control over their lives; Unexpected emotional battles, such as a feeling of isolation, anxiety, and self-doubt; Difficulty in stepmother-stepchild and co-parental relationships, in which participants struggled to earn respect, be accepted, and manage conflict with birthparents; Effects on mental health and well-being, in that participants reported higher stress, depression, and loss of self-esteem; and Struggles in marriage and lack of support from partners, in that stepmothers felt unsupported in their emotional needs and unappreciated in their relationships. The findings suggest that most bio-childfree participants view blended families positively yet soon encounter unexpected challenges that impact their emotional and mental health. The study underscores a demand for more support systems, role definitions, and open communication in blended families. Providing counselling, psychoeducation, and relationship-based interventions would improve the health of bio-childfree stepmothers and result in healthier family relationships. Long-term adaptations, coping strategies, and the impact of stepparenting on relationship satisfaction over time must be explored in future research.

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