Familytherapy Victoria June Step Moms New Deal Work

“You really made the lasagna yourself?” June asked, her voice small.

Old Deal: "You love them like your own, so you discipline them like your own." New Deal: Step-parenting is pseudo-parenting . The biological parent remains the primary disciplinarian. The stepmom is a trusted adult ally. If you are doing the grounding, the "New Deal" says you are doing too much. familytherapy victoria june step moms new deal work

When you stop over-functioning in areas where you aren't appreciated, you have more energy for authentic connection. “You really made the lasagna yourself

do. This moves away from the expectation of being a "second mother" and toward a role like a "trusted aunt" or "mentor." Disengage to Re-engage: The stepmom is a trusted adult ally

June raised an eyebrow but didn’t leave.

The concept of "new deal work" in family therapy refers to the process of re-defining and re-negotiating relationships, roles, and expectations within the family. This can involve: