A counselor from Oklahoma has published a new book aimed at helping blended families navigate the complexities of family dynamics. Steve Hudgins, based in Broken Arrow, released “Piece by Piece: My Blended Experience of Mosaic Family” to provide support and strategies for families undergoing transitions.
The book introduces the concept of Mosaic Family Systems Theory, which offers a framework for understanding modern family structures. With nearly 40% of children in the United States expected to experience their parents’ divorce by the age of 16, and Oklahoma ranking among the top ten states for high divorce rates, Hudgins aims to address a pressing need for guidance in this area.
In a recent news release, Hudgins shared, “I know firsthand how hard it can be to find your way after a life transition. Piece by Piece is my way of giving parents and children hope, along with practical steps to help them be seen, heard, supported, and heal.” His insights stem from both personal experience and extensive clinical practice, where he frequently assists families dealing with divorce, remarriage, and coparenting.
Hudgins’ book discusses what he terms Disrupted Parental Attachment (DPA), a condition he believes arises when children are exposed to ongoing conflict in parental relationships. This concept shifts the focus onto the child’s emotional and relational experiences, encouraging parents and caregivers to foster healthy attachment bonds. Furthermore, he envisions DPA as a measurable tool for professionals to recognize and address children’s needs during challenging family transitions.
Innovative Framework for Modern Families
In addition to DPA, “Piece by Piece” elaborates on Hudgins’ registered Mosaic Family Systems Theory (MFST). This framework acknowledges the complexity of contemporary families, characterized by overlapping relationships and multiple households. It emphasizes the individual voices of each family member while illustrating how their experiences contribute to the collective family dynamic.
Hudgins uses the metaphor of a visual mosaic to redefine blended families. Each piece of the mosaic represents a parent, stepparent, or child, showcasing individual roles within the family system. The borders of the pieces symbolize personal and relational boundaries, while the overlaps highlight how responsibilities and experiences intersect among family members. The complete image serves to reflect the intricate nature of family life.
“Blended families today are like mosaics—unique and intricate,” Hudgins explained. “Seeing how each piece fits together helps parents and children navigate change and build stronger connections across households.” He advocates for the use of MFST as a means to enhance communication and support children’s emotional and social development amid transitions.
The book offers practical strategies for readers, including techniques for building strong relationships in blended family situations, effectively communicating with children and co-parents, and navigating the adjustments that come with stepparent roles.
“Piece by Piece” is now available in both paperback and Kindle formats on Amazon. For more information about Steve Hudgins and his work, readers can visit his website at www.drsteveh.com. The publication of this book represents a significant step toward addressing the needs of blended families in Oklahoma and beyond, providing valuable resources for those seeking to thrive amidst change.
