I've often felt that "step-parent" is a label we attach to men and women who marry into families where children already exist for the simple reason that we need to call them something.

I've often felt that "step-parent" is a label we attach to men and women who marry into families where children already exist, for the simple reason that we need to call them something.

The children are often happier, too, particularly if they are used to their parents quarrelling endlessly. They may feet they are better off with just one parent, or with a new step-parent.