Replies to 'Step-Parenting'

Thank you so much for your reply.  I cant believe that I have gotten to the point where I question everything that I do, and whether or not I am crazy.  I was never the type of person that needed to be given a whole lot of direction, I always knew right from wrong and was very comfortable with my relationship with my son.   

The one time that I threatened to leave, he said that that was proof that I let me son run my life and that I cater to him.   I dont in any way let my son tell me what to do, but I do believe in letting kids have their input and their thoughts taken into consideration.  After all, its not his fault that his father and I seperated, that his dad and stepmom have a new baby, that he is now supposed to try and have a relationship with my boyfriend.  I just think that including their input into decisions allows them to feel that they have a little bit of control.  He is a very quiet kid, and yes has done a few things wrong, but he is a teenager, and I think that most teenagers test their limits at some point.  Even his own kids agree with me, but are timid to tell him to his face.  They sometimes joke to him about his "odd" ways, but will never seriously tell him how his negative criticism has affected them or how it is affecting me and my son.   

Thank you again, and I value what you have said.  I feel that I can make a decision now and not question my sanity.  I know that is crazy, but I always worry that my friends and family are only trying to make me feel better when they say it isnt right the way things are going.  An unbiased opinion or opinions always help.