Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the vulnerability of the reconstituted family from a sociopedagogic perspective. ;The following aspects were investigated and described: Reasons for the establishment of reconstituted families. The vulnerability of reconstituted families. Specific situations in the reconstituted family. The effect of remarriage on the reconstituted family. A sociopedagogic evaluation of the reconstituted family. ;The research findings are as follows: The effect of remarriage on the reconstituted family requires unique skills of both parent and child. Reconstituted families show a definite need for guidance. The husband and wife who are restructuring a marriage, do not necessarily marry for the same reasons. Ignorance and misconceptions regarding the structured family as typical family type, are still prevalent. Parents of reconstituted families show poor insight into the unique nature and composition of this type of family. It appears that the main problem concerning the reconstituted family lies with the children who are involved. The absent parent is often not optimally involved in the children's education. The reconstituted family is often built on losses. The person who marries a parent with resident children initially experiences himself as being an intruder. Children of reconstituted families often experience conflict as a result of divided loyalties towards their biological parents. Problems to adjust can complicate family relationships. Relationship problems experienced in the reconstituted family are often related to myths. Parent's ignorance in respect of realities, as well as the unique nature of this type of family, contribute to relationship problems. ;The following recommendations supported by the research findings: The planning and design of parental guidance programmes for newly formed reconstituted family couples are essential. Children of prospective reconstituted families should receive active professional support to prepare them for a new family unit. The school as a source of therapeutic guidance to children of reconstituted families should be optimally utilised and developed. It is imperative that society in general be sensitised in respect of the reconstituted family as a unique family unit