Evaluating Impact of Transition Seminars on Missionary Kids’ Depression,Anxiety,Stress,and Well-Being

Abstract

Missionary Kids (MKs) are included in a broader population defined as Third Culture Kids (TCKs), children who are raised outside of their parents’ home cultures (Pollock & Van Reken, 2001). This upbringing affords positive opportunities to experience diverse cultures but may also contribute to identity struggles and feelings of cultural isolation (Gillies, 1998; Hill, 2006; Pollock, 1989). To facilitate successful transitions from living overseas to the US, several reentry programs have been developed, but their effectiveness has not been examined. In this exploratory study the efficacy of a 13-day MK Transitions Seminar was measured. Participants’ pre and post-test scores on the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale-21 and the Psychological General Well-Being Index indicated a significant reduction in levels of depression, anxiety, and stress, as well as significant improvement in overall psychological well-being. The findings and limitations of this study and implications for future studies are discussed.

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