A biological parent may feel they are betraying their first spouse by being "too close" to the stepchild.
Acknowledging that it is okay for the child not to love the stepparent immediately. unwelcomed stepchild pdf
Below is a synthesized, comprehensive article based on current psychological and sociological research regarding the lived experiences of stepchildren who feel unwelcome, including the emotional impact and strategies for healing. A biological parent may feel they are betraying