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Child Behavior (Expert Forum)
5 year old and new step father
Answered by
Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D. - Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy, Family Therapy, Crisis Intervention
Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates
This forum is for questions and support regarding child behavior issues such: Child Discipline (behavior management), Normal Child Development, Parent-Child Communications, Social Development
5 year old and new step father
by Jo, May 22, 2000 12:00AM
I have a five year old nephew who has been raised by a single mother his entire life. He has never had a father figure. A few months ago, however, his mother got married. On one hand, my nephew is really excited about having a father figure in his life. It didn't take him long before he started calling the guy "Dad." It is apparent he loves his "Dad." However, on the other hand, he has really been acting out. He tells lies about his step-father. For instance, he tells people that his step-father is doing mean things to him, even though this is definitely NOT the case. I'm sure this is a huge adjustment for a child to make, especially since this is the first father figure he's ever had in his life. But how far is too far? What can my sister and her husband do to make this transition for him any easier?
Doctor's Answer
by Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D., May 23, 2000 12:00AM
, May 23, 2000 12:00AM
Dear Jo,
All they can do is be reasonable parents. And remember, from the child's perspective, it may be that his stepfather is being 'mean' to him. For example, simple limit setting from a parent, even if it is reasonable, can seem mean from the child's point of view.
All they can do is be reasonable parents. And remember, from the child's perspective, it may be that his stepfather is being 'mean' to him. For example, simple limit setting from a parent, even if it is reasonable, can seem mean from the child's point of view.
Member Comments (1)
by Ivy2008, Jan 12, 2009 07:18AM
A related discussion, my 6 year old daughter was started.
by Anthony209, Apr 01, 2009 05:11PM
A related discussion, Stepfather was started.
