The foundation of a strong stepfamily is a strong marriage. However, there could be the problem of unresolved issues or feelings for a former spouse, which could intrude on the remarriage. There could be the continuation of a problem that occurred in the previous marriage, such as poor communication skills. There could even be a problem between them that the couple denies because they don't want to risk losing each other. Old and new in-laws who don't accept the new spouse may place additional strain on the marriage.
Children present challenges because the parental responsibilities are immediate.
Couples don't get the private adjustment time that first marriage couples do. The noncustodial parent may resent the new stepparent and try to create friction between the new spouses. The additional difficulties may intrude on the couple's relationship. Financial problems may also arise as the couple struggles to decide who gets how much of whatever money is available. Remarried couples can nurture their relationship by planning private time together, taking time to arrive at mutual decisions about discipline, household rules and finances, and by taking time to work out any personal problem before it becomes large.