이혼 후 재혼가정 내 부모자녀 관계 적응에 대한 사례연구: 성인진입기 계자녀를 중심으로

A Case Study on the Adaptation of Parent-Child Relationships in Remarried Families after Divorce: Focusing on Stepchildren in the Emerging Adulthood

This study aimed to explore parent-child relationships within remarried families after divorce from the perspective of stepchildren. A qualitative case study method explored stepchildren aged 19–29 years. First, the stepchildren differentiated the meaning of relationship adaptation into ‘family’ and ‘outsiders’ based on the degree of emotional connection with their step-parents. Male participants perceived respect for their biological mother’s choices and acceptance of changing circumstances as components of their relationship adaptation. Second, the key resources for step-parental relationship included religious beliefs, positive communication with step-parents, and the mediating role of biological parents. Third, the challenges in adapting to the step-parental relationship were identified as conflicts between the remarried couple, the step-parent’s relationship with their biological children and relatives, and ambiguities due to legal limitations in family relationship laws for remarried families. Finally, the religious beliefs and positive communication of stepchildren and step-parents facilitated the acceptance of step-parents as ‘family members’ from being ‘outsiders,’ with variations based on the age and gender of individuals who experienced their parent’s remarriage. The research findings recommended education and counseling for remarried families, emphasizing resource-based interventions tailored to the unique characteristics of remarried families.