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The Presence and Impact of Loss in Stepfamilies

Reynolds, Tana R.

Abstract Details

2015, Master of Science (MS), Ohio University, Child and Family Studies (Health Sciences and Professions).
In the world of family research, studies on ambiguous loss in stepfamilies are rare. Ambiguous loss is found to be a type of loss experience that creates unclear family boundaries. This thesis examines the existence and impact of ambiguous loss and ambiguous gain within the stepfamily system. By utilizing retrospective, semistructured interviews, the experience of loss and its impact were assessed. With the use of systems theory and boundary ambiguity theory, six common themes were found across seven participant interviews. Themes, implications, and ways to further academic study on ambiguous loss and gain are discussed, contributing to the revisioning of the Seven Stages of Stepfamily Development and the Stepping Ahead Program.
Jennifer Chabot (Committee Chair)

Recommended Citations

Citations

  • Reynolds, T. R. (2015). The Presence and Impact of Loss in Stepfamilies [Master's thesis, Ohio University]. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ohiou1438633168

    APA Style (7th edition)

  • Reynolds, Tana. The Presence and Impact of Loss in Stepfamilies. 2015. Ohio University, Master's thesis. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center, http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ohiou1438633168.

    MLA Style (8th edition)

  • Reynolds, Tana. "The Presence and Impact of Loss in Stepfamilies." Master's thesis, Ohio University, 2015. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ohiou1438633168

    Chicago Manual of Style (17th edition)