Family centred social work practice with stepfamilies
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Date
2001-08-01T00:00:00Z
Authors
Rew, Meera
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Abstract
This practicum involves an in depth look at stepfamilies and the many challenges they face in the blending process of forming new relationships within the new family. An examination of the issues faced exclusively by stepfamilies shows additional pressures, tension and anxiety not often experienced by the nuclear family. Common themes such as loss, boundaries, roles, communication and relationship development are highlighted in the literature review. The following discussion explores the student's practicum experience with 6 stepfamilies. The integrated approach use in intervention involved elements of psychoeducation, the strengths perspective and solution-focused therapy. The student worked with different subsystems within each family system including individuals, couples, and families. Evaluation of the practicum was conducted through the use of the Index of Family Relations and the Index of Parental Attitude scales. Overall, the results of the practicum indicate the value of the use of the strengths andpsychoeducational approach in working with stepfamilies.