Publication Date

Spring 4-22-2024

School

School of Behavioral Sciences

Major

Psychology

Keywords

missionary kids, third culture kids, cross-cultural, transitions, university, international, identity, missions, christian, student, community, program, children, teenagers, college

Disciplines

Counseling | Social and Behavioral Sciences

Abstract

The cultural identity and transitions of a Third Culture Kid (TCK) is often a matter of discussion and debate. The purpose of this phenomenological study is to understand the factors that influence the identity and the cross-cultural transitions of university-level TCKs, with a specific focus on Missionary Kids (MKs). The study involved semi-structured interviews of seven undergraduate university students, over the age of 18 and currently involved in the university's Missionary Kid Scholarship program. Results revealed several key themes including identity, community, and friendship expectations that influenced the transition process. Participants generally displayed a positive transition, and the findings provide insight into ways that schools and organizations may help the cross-cultural transition of MKs.

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