ABSTRACT
Stepfamilies are not a new phenomenon. For centuries the lives of many children have been interrupted by the death, separation or divorce of their parents. In the past stepfamilies were more likely to arise after the death of a spouse, often to create a substitute parental figure for the children as well as companionship between the couple. The increase in divorce in England and Wales, particularly since 1970, has led to much public discussion about the breakdown of a lifelong commitment to marriage, the undermining of the stability of family life and the effects upon children. A stepfamily is rarely portrayed as a positive re-investment in family life but rather as a threat to marriage and an encouragement to divorce. Stepfamilies have to exercise the rights and responsibilities that any family has for dependent children. Information should be requested on the existence and age of any children at the registration of a marriage.
