Many times when a parent remarries the new step parent finds himself in a difficult situation. That is because kids dont respect a step parent as an authority figure but rather someone who is simply sharing the house with them. Of course, there are times when this is not the case, but many times when a parent remarries who has older kids it is the case. So, that leaves the question as to whether or not a step parent can ever be the disciplinarian.

The answer is yes and no. In some cases, the step parent can eventually become the disciplinarian and in some cases this will never occur. For example, when a step parent comes into the picture and the children are very small it wont take long for them to warm up to the new step parent. At least in most cases. Step parents in this situation will frequently find themselves becoming the disciplinarian of the family especially if they are the ones who spend the most time with the children. And in these situations it usually works out well.

On the other hand, when a step parent comes into the picture when the children are older then the step parent will almost never become the disciplinarian. In some cases the step parent will be able to discipline the children mildly after a few years. However, this is not always the case and it really depends on the children and the step parents relationship.

Of course, the step parent might become the disciplinarian in some situations but this is truly the exception to the rule. If you are about to marry and have children then you need to sit down with the soon to be step parent and discuss discipline, who will carry it out, and how. When everyone is on the same page the results are best. Also, the children should be aware if the step parent will be disciplining them. Most kids dont respond well to a step parent invading their space much less disciplining them. So, if this scenario will occur the children should be well aware of it early on and steps should be taken to help make the transition as easy as possible on everyone involved.

Posted in Parenting

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