ABSTRACT
Using dyadic responses, this study of 50 middle to upper-to-middle class stepfather families examined factors that influence the quality of the stepfather-adolescent relationship. Correlational analysis indicated that agreement between the stepfather and mother regarding the raising of the adolescent (from the perspective of both the stepfather and the adolescent) was the most significant predictor of relationship quality. Other predictors were stepfather’s satisfaction with his marriage and the adolescent’s perception of family income. The importance of a family systems perspective is addressed.
