Kunkel, A. (2004). The seductive mother: A study of the seductive relationship between mother and daughter. Journal of Mother-Daughter Relationships, 1(1), 1-15.
Courtois, C. A. (2010). Healing from trauma: A survivor's guide to healing and recovery. W.W. Norton & Company.
Research suggests that individuals who experience inappropriate relationships within their family of origin may be at a higher risk of developing mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (Courtois, 2010). Furthermore, the power imbalance in such relationships can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and self-blame in the victim, making it challenging for them to seek help or disclose the abuse.
The media and popular culture often perpetuate the stereotype of the "seductive step-mom" or the "temptress step-mom," which can contribute to a normalization of such relationships (Kunkel, 2004). However, it is essential to recognize that these stereotypes are often based on power imbalances and can have damaging consequences for individuals and families.