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Perceived understanding and self-disclosure in the stepparent-stepchild relationship
M M Martin1, C M Anderson, T P Mottet
1Communication Studies Department, West Virginia University, Morgantown 26506-6293, USA.
The Journal of Psychology
|May 13, 1999
Summary
Open communication through self-disclosure enhances stepchild-stepparent understanding. Honesty in sharing feelings is key, particularly for stepdaughters, fostering stronger family bonds.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Family Studies
- Social Sciences
Background:
- The stepparent-stepchild relationship is a complex family dynamic.
- Effective communication is crucial for positive adjustment in blended families.
- Understanding the role of self-disclosure in this relationship is vital.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the link between self-disclosure and perceived understanding in stepparent-stepchild relationships.
- To explore specific facets of self-disclosure, including intentionality, amount, positiveness, depth, and honesty.
- To examine gender differences in the relationship between self-disclosure and perceived understanding.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire was administered to 165 stepchildren.
- Participants reported on their self-disclosure behaviors with their stepparents.
- Participants also reported their feelings of being understood by their stepparents.
Main Results:
- Self-disclosure was positively correlated with perceived understanding.
- The honesty of self-disclosure showed a particularly strong positive relationship with perceived understanding.
- The association between self-disclosure and perceived understanding was more significant for stepdaughters than for stepsons.
Conclusions:
- Open and honest self-disclosure by stepchildren contributes to feeling understood by stepparents.
- Honesty is a critical component of self-disclosure for fostering understanding.
- Gender plays a role, with stepdaughters potentially benefiting more from self-disclosure in this context.