Is it psychologically damaging for a parent to introduce their

[TML ?'er]

boyfriend/girlfriend....? to their young children and say it's o.k. to call them "Dad" or "Mom" even though it is not their biological parent?

My nephew is dating an older woman that has two young children (2 & 7 years old). They have been dating approx. 6 months and the other day, I overheard the 7 year old call him "Dad".

 

[Hovis]

its not really right because if he leaves at some point in the future they may be confused as to why their dad does not see them any more.

However My cousin has 2 grand children who call her nan, her son and daughter in law split and she has had a little girl and now she is talking she always says "hiya nan" sandra will always say "hiya amy" sandra knows its not the little girls fault because the boys call her nan its just going to be hard when she gets older and her mum has to explain to her why she cannot go to Sandra's house when the boys do.

 

[Precious Gem]

I am not sure if it would be psychologically damaging but it might cause resentment
on the part of the children. During a break up children will take sides no matter how
hard the parents try to make sure that doesn't happen. Making a child call a non-biological friend mom or dad can stir up problems not to mention heartache. In younger children this practice can cause confusion in some kids.

 

[fun.notnuts]

When there is a solid relationship going on for 6 months or more with very frequent amounts of time spent together it is natural for the children to get attached and they have a deep desire to have a father figure for their development.
A dad is someone who is around and cares and guides and loves. If that is what this young man is doing, more power to him. If the children call him Dad, he must be doing a good job.
That being said, I sure hope the relationship lasts because it could be very devastating for the kids to lose a father the 2nd time.

Life is a bumpy road made better by love.