Stepparent Involvement in Discipline and Adolescent Maladjustment: What Factors Moderate the Association?

The current study examined associations between stepparent involvement in discipline and adolescent maladjustment, as well as factors that moderate these associations. Using survey data from 507 U.S. adolescents (ages 13–18) residing with a stepparent, we assessed links between stepparent discipline and two indicators of maladjustment: conduct problems and depressive symptoms. Regression analyses revealed that greater stepparent involvement in discipline was associated with higher levels of both conduct problems and depression. Tests of moderation indicated that these associations were most pronounced among adolescents identifying as non-Hispanic White and in families self-described as financially well off, and least pronounced among adolescents identifying as non-Hispanic Black or Asian. Longer stepparent-adolescent relationship duration also attenuated associations between stepparent discipline and adolescent depression. Findings underscore the importance of considering cultural and economic contexts, as well as relationship timing, when addressing stepparent involvement in discipline. Implications for family-focused practice and future research are discussed.