Blended families are becoming increasingly common, but that doesn’t mean they’re without their challenges. From dealing with exes to navigating different parenting styles, blended families often have to work harder to find harmony. So what are the common blended family issues?
Introduction to Common Blended Family Issues
There will be issues and conflict in every family but blended family problems are often much more challenging as you can be dealing with trying to find harmony by bringing two families together. All family members will need time to adjust – this can include getting to know your partner’s kids, it can involve step-siblings getting to know each other, new family routines, new family members and perhaps new household rules. So what are some common blended family problems and what is the best way to approach those issues for the best chance of developing positive family relationships?
What is a Blended Family?
A blended family is a family where one or both parents have children from previous relationships. The term “blended families” can also refer to stepfamilies, in which the parents are not married but have children living with them. New challenges that traditional nuclear families may not face are becoming prominent as blended families become increasingly common.
What Are Some Examples of a Blended Family?
There are many different types of blended families. Some examples include:
● A single parent who has remarried and now has step-children
● A couple who has had children from previous relationships (biological or adopted) and are now raising them together
● A couple who has fostered or adopted children together
“There will always be steps you can take toward unity in your blended family. You will make—one step at a time!”
Donna Houpe
What are the Main Issues Common With a Blended Family?
Though every family is different and will face unique challenges, there are some common issues among blended families.
One common challenge is creating a sense of unity and cohesion within the family. With many different dynamics, it can be difficult to create a cohesive unit.
It’s also common for blended families to struggle with communication and conflict resolution. There are often different parenting styles at play, leading to disagreements.
Another common challenge is dealing with grief and loss. When a blended family is first formed, it’s not uncommon for feelings of grief and loss for both the adults and children involved. The children may grieve the loss of their previous family structure, and the adults may grieve the loss of their previous relationships.
Blended families experience their own unique set of challenges, but there are also many rewards. With patience, communication, and a lot of love, blended families can overcome anything.
Why is a Blended Family So Hard?
There are a few different dynamics at play that can make life difficult for blended families. There are usually two sets of parents trying to parent their own children while also getting used to parenting each other’s children. Adapting to the parenting styles can be a recipe for conflict, as each parent may have different ideas about how things should be handled. Additionally, step-children often have a hard time accepting their new step-parents and may feel like they are being forced to share their parents’ attention and love.
This can lead to a lot of resentment and conflict within the family. Blended families also often deal with many financial difficulties that other families don’t have to deal with, such as two sets of child support payments, two mortgages, etc. All of these factors can make life very difficult for blended families. If you’re in a blended family, it’s essential to be patient and understanding and try to work together as much as possible to make things work.
How Do You Handle Conflict in a Blended Family?
Conflict is inevitable in any family, but it can be especially challenging in a blended family. If you’re step-parenting, you may be dealing with conflict between your partner and their ex, between your partner and their children, or all of the above. And if you have biological children of your own, you may be dealing with jealousy, resentment, or simply different parenting styles.
So how do you handle conflict in a blended family? Here are a few tips:
● Communicate with your partner. It’s vital to be on the same page with your partner regarding parenting and discipline. Talk about your expectations, your family values and parenting styles ahead of time, and be willing to compromise.
● Don’t take sides. If your partner is having conflict with their ex spouse, resist the urge to take sides as it could worsen the situation.
● Be patient. It takes time for blended families to adjust to each other and find a new normal. Try to be patient and understanding during this process.
● Seek professional help. If you’re struggling to deal with conflict in your blended family, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. A family therapist can help you and your family work through your issues and improve communication.
How Do You Resolve Blended Family Issues?
Here are a few ways to help resolve blended family issues:
- Open communication: One of the most important things you can do is keep the lines of communication open. Be willing to talk about any issues that arise, no matter how difficult they may be.
- Flexibility: Another important thing to remember is to be flexible. There will be times when things don’t go according to plan, and that’s okay. The important thing is to adjust and make the best of the situation.
- Patience: Patience is essential. It takes time for families to blend together, and there will be ups and downs along the way. But if you can stick with it, things will eventually come together.
- Create new family traditions: It’s so important to try to bring the family together in a positive way so ask all family members for their input on what new family traditions could be implemented (such as a weekly game night) to improve bonding time.
- Eat regular family meals together: Establishing regular family meals together not only helps to improve communication and encourage healthy eating habits, but it’s a great way to encourage family cohesion and bonding, as well as open conversation.
“Blended families are a beautiful mix of diverse people who each serve an important role in our lives. At times, it can be challenging to appreciate everyone’s unique beauty”
Deana Keller La Rosa
How Long Does it Take For Blended Families to Adjust?
There’s no one answer to this question, as it varies from family to family. Some families may take a few months to adjust, while others may take a year or more. It all depends on the individual situation. The most crucial thing you can do is be patient and give it time. Blended families can eventually find their groove and become a tight-knit unit with patience and understanding.
Why are Blended Families Increasing?
There are many reasons why blended families are becoming more and more common. One reason is that people are getting married later in life, and many have already had children from previous relationships. Additionally, divorce rates are high, contributing to the increase in blended families. Whatever the reason, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. Many families are dealing with the same issues, and resources are available to help you through it.
You mighty want to consider the Circle of Security program, Family Therapy options and even Parenting Programs.
Summary – Common Blended Family Issues
If you’re part of a blended family or are thinking about starting one, keep these things in mind and reach out for help if you need it. With effort and understanding, you can make it work and overcome common blended family issues, for the positive mental health of all family members.
