34 Unit 1 Your Development and Relationships
and meet career demands. These many responsibilities can present challenges
for the single parent.
Often, a single-parent family forms because of a death or divorce. Either
situation creates a great deal of emotional stress for the family members.
Children may need help in coping with the loss of the parent. Older children
may have to take on extra responsibilities. All members will need to pull
together and support one another as they adjust to the changes. The family
members can provide love, security, and encouragement for one another.
The Stepfamily
A stepfamily, or blended family, forms when a single parent marries. In a
stepfamily, at least one of the parents is a stepparent to the children. A stepparent is a
person who marries a child’s mother or father. He or she is not related to the child by
blood. Stepmothers or stepfathers may legally adopt the children of their spouse.
The blending of two families can
present new challenges for the family
members. Children have to learn
to share their home with another
adult, and possibly other children.
There will be more people using the
same facilities. Adjustments in daily
routines may occur. There may be
more demands on the family income.
When a stepfamily forms, it is
a new beginning for the married
couple. Their love for each other
can draw all members of the family
closer together. The strengths of
each member of the family can
benefi t the family as a whole.
The Extended Family
An extended family has
relatives other than parents (or
stepparents) and children living
together in one home. An extended
family could include grandparents,
aunts, uncles, or cousins.
In an extended family, there are
more family members to provide
guidance and support for one
another, 2-3. They can take care of
small children if the parents work.
They can help with household
chores and meals. They can be
there to listen and advise when
others may not be available.
2-3 In an extended family, a grandparent may care for
the grandchildren while the parents work.
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Note
Enrich