2016 Volume 30 Issue 1 Pages 30-42
Previous studies have revealed that stepchildren experience complex emotions regarding their stepfathers. Moreover, the relationship between stepchildren and stepfathers may be related to the relationship between children and their biological mothers and the relationship between children and their nonresident biological fathers. However, the relationship between stepchildren and stepfathers has not been sufficiently examined in Japan.
This study examined why stepchildren have complex feelings regarding their stepfathers, taking into account the children's views of their biological mother, nonresident biological father, and the family. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with three adolescents, and the interview transcripts were analyzed using the KJ method.
Results revealed that the stepchildren viewed their stepfathers from three points of view: in comparison to their nonresident biological fathers, in comparison to their biological mothers, and the stepfather as a member of the family. In cases where the children had a strong sense that their nonresident biological fathers were their “fathers,” they felt psychologically distant from their stepfathers. Similarly, having considerable trust in one’s biological mother was related to a sense of psychological distance from one's stepfather. In addition, a perceived closeness of the family led to positive feelings towards one's stepfather. In conclusion, perceptions of one’s biological mother, perceptions of one's nonresident biological father, and perceptions of the family can affect how adolescents perceive the quality of their relationship with their stepfathers. This finding was discussed in terms of the gap between culture and children’s perceptions and feelings.
