The Smart Stepfamily: Seven Steps to a Healthy Family

Moody, Nov/Dec 2002
"Comprehensive, common sense discussion of challenges that stepfamilies face, with biblical resolutions. He explodes the myth of the 'blended family.'"

Christian Home & School, Mar/Apr 2003
"Exceptional book... Chapters addressing sexuality, money, discipline, and stepfathers assuming spiritual headship of the family offer excellent insights."

Book Description
Ron Deal explodes the myth of the "blended" family as he provides practical, realistic solutions to the issues that stepfamilies face. He helps remarried and soon-to-be married couples Recognize the unique personality and place of each family member Solve the everyday puzzles of stepparenting and stepchildren relationships Learn communication skills to deal with ex-spouses Honor families of origin while developing new traditions Invest the time to grow their stepfamily slowly rather than look for instant results No two stepfamilies are alike, and the principles, information, illustrations, discussion questions, and activities in The Smart Stepfamily help couples focus on their specific situation to build healthy marriages and peaceful families. Based on Ron Deal’s nationwide stepfamily seminars, this material is equally helpful for couples, small groups, pastors, and counselors.

From the Inside Flap
"He compassionately abd competently describes the spiritual and relational challenges facing stepfamilies. Ron provides practical and wise instruction for successfully navigating the stepfamily journey. The Smart Stepfamily is the best book available for stepfamilies that I've seen. I'm convinced it will prove to be a valuable resource for stepfamilies. Buy it, read it, and share it with a friend." - Dennis Rainey, Executive Director, Family Life "Ron Deal has, by far, the best material available on stepfamilies. The insights and suggestions he shares work. Every stepfamily will benefit from reading this book." - H. Norman Wright, Licensed marriage, family, and child therapist, found of Christian Marriage Enrichment, author "I love this book!" It adds an important dimension to the understanding of stepfamilies and reads as if sitting with wise friends. Written on the 'information is power' premise, The Smart Stepfamily weaves together a review of biblical materials, current psychological and sociological research, best practices, practical insights, and anecdotal stories to educate and support stepfamilies and the clergy who serve them." - Dr. Margorie Engel, President and CEO, Stepfamily Association of America

About the Author
Ron L. Deal is family life minister for the Southwest Church of Christ and a licensed marriage and family therapist, and licensed professional counselor with the Better Life Counseling Center. He presents his Building a Successful Stepfamily seminar nationwide and is on the institute faculty and advisory counsel for the Stepfamily Association of America. Ron, his wife, and their sons live in Arkansas.


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Ron Deal explodes the myth of the "blended" family as he provides practical, realistic solutions to the issues that stepfamilies face. He helps remarried and soon-to-be married couples: Recognize the unique personality and place of each family member; Solve the everyday puzzles of stepparenting and stepchildren relationships; Learn communication skills to deal with ex-spouses; Honor families of origin while developing new traditions; Invest the time to grow their stepfamily slowly rather than look for instant results. No two stepfamilies are alike, and the principles, information, illustrations, discussion questions, and activities in The Smart Stepfamily help couples focus on their specific situation to build healthy marriages and peaceful families. Based on Ron Deal's nationwide stepfamily seminars, this material is equally helpful for couples, small groups, pastors, and counselors.


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