What is a reconstituted family often referred to as?

A reconstituted family is commonly referred to as a stepfamily. This type of family structure typically arises when one or both partners in a relationship have children from previous unions and then come together to form a new family unit. Stepfamilies can include various dynamics, such as a parent with a child marrying a partner who may also have children, leading to a blended family scenario.

The term "stepfamily" highlights the relationships formed through marriage or partnership rather than biological connections. It reflects the complexities and unique challenges faced by families that have been restructured due to remarriage or cohabitation following divorce or separation. Understanding the concept of a stepfamily is crucial in sociology, as it showcases the evolving nature of family compositions in contemporary society.