This can be particularly difficult if the other biological parent is still alone. It's not uncommon in this situation for teens to feel sorry for that parent and blame the remarried one for causing all the trouble in the marriage and the family. Teens may also express strong negative feelings when the stepparent attempts to discipline them. The situation becomes even more complicated when stepsiblings are part of the picture. In any family sibling rivalry can be intense, but it can be magnified in blended families.
Teens are keenly aware of and jealous about who's getting more attention.
Stepsiblings can also bear the brunt of a teen's anger about the difficulty of the new situation. Sibs that just visit on weekends may feel like outsiders while the ones who live in the house may feel like their space is being invaded. These newlyweds need time alone at the same time their teens require their time, support and attention. Then talk with your new spouse and set firm guidelines about which parent will be responsible for what, especially about issues related to rules, permission for activities, family responsibilities and discipline. After this is clear, explain it to the children.