Couple adaptation in stepfamilies and traditional nuclear families during pregnancy

Enhancing couple closeness and greater flexibility in family roles and relationships during pregnancy may be an essential factor for successful adaptation for childbearing couples. This study from the United States examined and compared family adaptation in terms of coping, adaptability and cohesion as they relate to satisfaction in 40 stepfamily and 40 traditional nuclear couples during the third trimester of pregnancy. Two distinct family types were found. Stepfamilies emerged as 'evolving' families. Traditional nuclear families manifested themselves as 'established'.