Family systems theory and bidirectionality are two models that seek to
explain the nature of relationship influences on children's and adult
s' development. Points of convergence and divergence between the model
s are discussed and empirically examined in a sample of 72 nondivorced
and 56 stepfather families. A multirater, multimethod design was used
to model effects of family relationships on adolescent social compete
nce, cognitive agency, and externalizing behavior. The major findings
were that (a) adolescent --> parent behavior was as robust as parent -
-> adolescent behavior in predicting adolescent adjustment; (b) family
relations were less coherent or connected in stepfamilies compared to
nondivorced; and (c) the configuration of family relationships modera
ted the effect of a specific relationship on adolescent adjustment. We
discuss the implications for how family systems theory qualifies and
extends bidirectional models and how contextual influences, especially
family type, modify bidirectional and systems models of relationships
.