Native American Stepfamilies: Children’s Expectations Concerning Their Residential Stepparents’ Behavior

Keywords

Native Americans, stepchildren, stepfamily quality, stepfamily relationship

Abstract

This study examined how a Native American stepchild’s expectations for their stepparents’ behavior associated with the stepfamily quality. The responses of Native Americans and multiracial Native Americans were compared to the general population in order to identify cultural differences that affect stepfamily quality. Data came from the Stepfamily Experience Project (STEP). Findings suggest that Native Americans differed from other races concerning stepfamily quality, stress from the stepfamily forming, a child’s expectation for a stepparent’s control behaviors, and a child’s relationship with their biological parent. For practical use, clinicians should consider Native American stepchildren’s expectations regarding their stepparent’s behaviors in order to better assess stepfamily quality and provide more effective services.

Original Publication Citation

Limb, G., *Cousin, L., & *Larkin, Z. (2019). Native American stepfamilies: Children’s expectations concerning their residential stepparent’s behavior. Journal of Social Service Research. DOI: 10.1080/01488376.2018.1532945

Document Type

Peer-Reviewed Article

Publication Date

2019-01-06

Permanent URL

http://hdl.lib.byu.edu/1877/5912

Publisher

Journal of Social Service Research

Language

English

College

Family, Home, and Social Sciences

Department

Social Work

University Standing at Time of Publication

Full Professor

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