Courtship in Stepfamilies

Abstract

We live in an era when the term dating is considered old fashioned, and in fact, the concept of dating may be passé as well. However, dating, or whatever term is currently used, is a relevant concept when considering the processes by which individuals find and choose romantic partners. We use the term courtship to describe the general methods used by adults when seeking and selecting a mate. This chapter focuses mostly on courtship for remarriage because there is far more information about remarried couples than cohabiting couples who have children from prior relationships. When there is relevant information on cohabiting couples, either gay or heterosexual, we include it.