Notes two cross-cultural and transhistorical myths associated with stepmotherhood: the evil stepmother myth and the myth of instant love. Asserts that the tenacity of these myths has served to stigmatize stepmothers. Describes myths associated with stepmothers, details how these myths affect stepmother life, reveals dilemmas in identity management for stepmothers, and indicates identity management strategies stepmothers might use. (Author/NB)