Which of the following is a stress reaction commonly experienced by stepmothers?

• A. increased role strain
• B. greater sibling rivalry
• C. increased role clarification
• D. less traditional sex roles

Answer: (A)

Stepmothers entering a new family often face competing demands from their partner, the biological mother, and the stepchildren, with unclear boundaries and expectations. This creates role strain, a stress reaction where the person feels pulled between conflicting responsibilities and feels unable to meet all demands. It’s the most common stress response in stepfamilies because establishing authority and meaningful relationships without formal status or clear norms naturally produces ongoing tension.

Greater sibling rivalry describes tensions among children rather than the stepparent’s stress response. Increased role clarification would reduce stress by making duties clearer, not a stress reaction. Less traditional sex roles reflect changes in gender norms rather than a stress reaction specific to being a stepmother.