The relationship among role strain, coping, and marital satisfaction is examined in a cross-sectional sample of 73 stepparents. New information is discussed pertaining to differential types of role strain identified in stepparent groups. The association between types of role strain and differential types of coping strategies and coping resources is analyzed. Results document the association between coping resources of self-esteem and self-efficacy and certain dimensions of role strain. An inverse relationship between role strain and marital satisfaction is noted. Based on study results, the authors identify vulnerable subgroups and suggest implications for practice with stepfamilies.

No abstract

The stepparent role has been identified with chronic strain throughout the literature. Although various aspects of role strain have been anecdotally reported, its specific nature and most problematic aspects for stepparents have not been examined empirically. This article reports the initial phases in the development of an instrument that measures the strain thought to be integral to the stepparent role. Descriptive findings point to the importance of role strain in informing our knowledge of and service to stepfamilies.

This article provides an overview of cult-related issues that may reveal themselves in therapeutic situations. These issues include: families in cults; parental (especially mothers') roles in cults; the impact that cult leaders have on families; the destruction of family intimacy; child abuse; issues encountered by noncustodial parents; the impact on cognitive, psychological, and moral development; and health issues. The authors borrow from numerous theoretical perspectives to illustrate their points, including self psychology, developmental theory, and the sociology of religion. They conclude with a discussion of the therapeutic challenges that therapists face when working with cult-involved clients and make preliminary recommendations for treatment.

No abstract