Because step moms need to prove that they are better than the real mom, to prove that dad should of gotten the kids not mom since SM is now in the picture and "thinks" dad is a wonderful no fault parent, and real mom is the worst. Step mom is jealous of real mom, step mom feels threatened that dad may go back to real mom, and step mom is jealous of child because it is not theirs and will belittle mom to make themselves feel empowered. Oh, and lets not forget, dad really does want to help support, feed, diaper and have custody whether shared or joint, BUT, he doesn't have the time, energy or resources to use internet for information. He wants to fight, but has other things to do. So the new spouse steps in, takes over to prove over and over that "her" hubby is a good dad, that she married someone who just doesn't have time to fight for his kids, but she has all the time in the world to fight for him. Sounds like the facts to me. Faith