In a remarriage involving co-parenting with an ex-spouse's children, which outcome is supported by the material?

• A. Harriet's new husband will be a better father to her children.
• B. Norma and Harriet will both try to adopt children.
• C. Both couples will be equally satisfied with their new relationships.
• D. Norma and her husband will experience greater marital satisfaction.

Answer: (D)

Remarriage with co-parenting across two households often hinges on how well the new couple coordinates parenting and supports each other through the blended family dynamics. The material suggests that Norma and her husband will experience greater marital satisfaction because when partners collaborate effectively on parenting across ex-spouse boundaries, they build a sense of teamwork, clear communication, and mutual support. This shared mission and smoother cooperation reduce friction, reinforce their connection, and enhance overall relationship quality, which can translate into higher satisfaction for the couple. The other scenarios assume outcomes that aren’t the focus of the material—such as the stepfather automatically being a better father, adopting more children, or everyone feeling equally satisfied—so they’re not as well supported.