Blended Families

Abstract

In this chapter Gibson and Carden explore the creative and often spontaneous family constructions that can emerge within Second Life. These families can take various forms. They include romantic partnerships, “blended” families consisting of both members who are related outside of Second Life and members who are adopted in-world, and “constructed” families which are entirely formed in Second Life. The core finding of this chapter is that these family configurations are real and significant to their members.