What are second-marriage children?

Second-marriage children are also known as step-children. They are those children who retain one biological parent in the household, but have a new parent as a result of the remaining biological parent's second marriage.

Due to higher divorce rates, many more people than before are getting married a second time. Children from previous marriages face having to get used to a new parent and can often feel vulnerable and afraid of the change. Second-marriage children also sometimes mistrust the new parent, who in turn may feel stress and concern over performing her parental duties properly. Healthy communication is important within families with second-marriage children. These families are called "reconstituted families."