What is meant by step-motherly attitude?

The term "step-motherly attitude" refers to a perceived lack of care or favoritism, often associated with the way stepmothers are sometimes portrayed in literature and folklore as being harsh or unloving towards their stepchildren. This phrase implies that someone is treating a person or situation with neglect or unfairness, akin to the way a stepmother might be unfairly depicted as treating her stepchildren poorly compared to her biological children. It highlights issues of bias, favoritism, and a lack of nurturing in relationships.