Observational studies of families with stepfathers have found that, compared with stepsons, stepdaughters tend to be which?

• A. Less likely to withdraw from family contact.
• B. Happier to have a stepfather.
• C. More sullen, withdrawn, and negative toward the stepfather.
• D. More outgoing, reasonable, and pleased with the new arrangement.

Answer: (C)

Stepfamily dynamics show gender differences in how children respond to a new stepfather. In observational studies, stepdaughters tend to be more sullen, withdrawn, and negative toward the stepfather compared with stepsons. This pattern can reflect the stronger closeness and loyalty concerns often seen in mother–daughter relationships, along with discomfort with the new authority and boundaries a nonbiological father figure introduces. The stepson responses are typically less negative, and may even include more outward acceptance, which is why the described pattern fits the option about stepdaughters being more negative and withdrawn. The other options describe more positive engagement, which is not what these studies commonly report for stepdaughters.