The choices and constraints of secondary singles: Willingness to stepparent among divorced online daters across Europe

TitleThe choices and constraints of secondary singles: Willingness to stepparent among divorced online daters across Europe
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2017
AuthorsPotarca, G, Mills, M, van Duijn, M
JournalJournal of Family Issues
Volume38
Issue10
Pagination1443-1470
Keywordscross-national, divorce/separation, mate selection, remarriage, stepfamilies
Abstract

Using a large-scale sample of online daters in eight European countries (N = 196,777), we examine willingness to stepparent among divorcees in relation to both gender and number of children, as well as a set of contextual determinants. We find evidence that having one’s own resident children increases the readiness to partner someone with children. Contrary to previous findings, women are generally less willing to stepparent than men, but when resident children are present, gender dissimilarities fade. Notable national differences are also found. Divorced mothers living in Sweden, the Netherlands, Austria, or France are more open to having a partner with children, whereas Polish and Spanish divorced mothers would be less willing to stepparent. These results are interpreted in light of each country’s institutional background.

DOI10.1177/0192513X16631017
Refereed DesignationRefereed