Female soldier hugging child. ()

Third Culture Kids (TCKs) are children “who spend their formative years in places that are not their parents’ homeland,” according to bbc.com. The term was coined by Dr. Ruth Hill Useem and her husband in the 1950s and1960s when they were living abroad with their children in India. Dr. Useem is considered the founder of Third Culture Kid studies. Between the 1950s and 1980s, Dr. Useem completed field studies on TCKs in 76 countries.Military children can benefit greatly by living abroad. Knowing about TCKs and ECS can better equip you as a parent in getting them adjusted and thriving in their new home.

Third Culture Kids (TCKs) are children “who spend their formative years in places that are not their parents’ homeland,” according to bbc.com. The term was coined by Dr. Ruth Hill Useem and her husband in the 1950s and1960s when they were living abroad with their children in India. Dr. Useem is considered the founder of Third Culture Kid studies. Between the 1950s and 1980s, Dr. Useem completed field studies on TCKs in 76 countries.

Because of their service member parent’s job, many military children fall under the category of TCKs. There are many positives to being a TCK: Many grow up to speak multiple languages, adapt well to change and are multiculturally aware. However, there can be some negative effects as well. TCKs may have issues connecting with those in their “home” country, may experience trauma from constant moving and/or may develop Ex-Pat Child Syndrome.

Ex-Pat Child Syndrome (ECS) is when children experience emotional stress from moving and living abroad. It can affect children of all ages but primarily affects pre-teens and teenagers. According to psychotherapist Henriette Johnsen, symptoms can include, “Seclusion and feelings of isolation, sleep issues: excessive sleeping or lack of sleep, mood swings: prone to tears, irritation and anger, depression and anxiety, different eating patterns: lack of eating or overeating, they express themselves differently emotionally [and] disruptive behavior.” Johnsen also recommends looking for signs that they have stopped communicating with their friends and/or start hanging out with new types of friends that they never had before.

If you think that your child is experiencing ECS, there are several things that you can do. Many agree that communication is key. Allianzcare.com suggests asking your child targeted questions such as “what is your favorite thing about your new school,” “what is your least favorite thing,” and “what do you like about our ex-pat life?” Include them in conversations about decisions that impact them (as much as you can), according to Cignaglobal.com.

There should be a good mix of “old and new” in the child’s life as they get established. They should maintain contact with friends at previous duty locations and keep up their hobbies, but they should also try to make new friends and find interests in their new location as well. If they like baking or cooking, try creating dishes from your new area: German apple strudel or spaetzle, Italian tiramisu or carbonara, or British fish and chips or figgy pudding. Help them find an extracurricular activity that will help them connect with their peers that relates to their interests: Be on the lookout for on-base (or nearby) sports, art classes, acting/theater classes and shows, libraries and volunteer opportunities.

If you think your child could use some additional help with coping with their new life, you have options.

Military children can benefit greatly by living abroad. Knowing about TCKs and ECS can better equip you as a parent in helping them thrive in their new home.