When a child comes from a complex family situation, they can have difficulties feeling like they belong.

While it may be true that even those who have the most conventional of families can struggle with the idea of being the odd one out, it can be especially pronounced when somebody has a family tree that is a little more complicated. There are all kinds of scenarios that may lead to kids having different caregivers over the years, and although sometimes it turns out just fine, it can also be a source of great angst.

It is no secret that stepparents can be a difficult adjustment for many children, and the adults do not always make it easy for them, either. Many have the expectation that they should be able to leave behind the life they had before and adjust to their new one without too much effort. This is usually far from the truth, in particular when it comes to situations where a parent has passed away. The mixture of grief and major life changes is not comfortable for anybody, not least those who are young and vulnerable.