Abstract
M.A. (Psychology)
Although the reconstituted family is an ever-increasing
phenomenon in society today, there is a shortage of literature
and research studies on the subject. It is, therefore, the aim
of this study to obtain more information regarding the
functioning of this type of family structure.
The major part of this study consists of a theoretical literature
survey of the functioning of the reconstituted family measured
against the healthy and optimal functioning of the traditional
nuclear family. The following aspects of healthy functioning in
the reconstituted family were reviewed: cohesion, communication,
commitment, adaptation, establishment of boundaries, the power
structure, the extent of autonomy, acceptance of separation and
loss, the perception of reality, and affect. The phases of
family development in the reconstituted family were also
discussed because of their importance in the evaluation of family
functioning. In addition, research literature was used to
emphasize the complexity of the reconstituted family's
functioning in relation to aspects such as boundaries and family
integration. There is, however, a definite gap in research
on systemic aspects such as communication and cohesion which
relate to positive and optimal functioning in the reconstituted
family.