What term describes when an individual takes on the parenting role for children not biologically related to them due to marriage or de facto relationships?

Step-parenting refers to the situation where an individual assumes a parenting role for children who are not biologically their own, often as a result of marriage or a de facto relationship. In this context, a person becomes a step-parent when they partner with someone who has children from a previous relationship, thereby taking on a significant role in those children’s lives. This role can include responsibilities such as providing care, emotional support, and guidance, similar to that of a biological parent.

Foster parenting, while involving the care of children who are not biologically related, typically refers to a formal arrangement where the state places children into the care of individuals for a temporary period. Aunt/uncle parenting is generally understood as a less formal involvement where aunts and uncles play a supportive, caregiving role without the same legal or residential implications. Guardian parenting usually involves a legal guardianship arrangement, where an individual is appointed by a court to care for a child, which differs from the relational context implied in step-parenting.

Therefore, the correct term that describes the scenario provided is step-parenting, as it directly relates to the dynamics of blended families formed through marriage or cohabitation.