ABSTRACT
This chapter argues that children could be a potential eighth C added to the framework for some couples given that issues around parenting can impact relationships. This chapter first explores general considerations in assessing the potential impact of children upon a couple’s relationship. For example, couples may have different expectations around the number of children desired, parenting styles, or a partner’s level of involvement in parenting. The second section examines some of the common concerns that couples in stepfamilies may face. These include challenges of protecting time for the new relationship while raising children, developing an effective co-parenting relationship, establishing cooperative co-parenting relationships with ex-partners, and addressing financial issues such as child support.
