Psychological and Emotional Impact on Children Moving Internationally Due to Parent’s Career

Introduction

Children moving every few years due to their parents' career development can face unique psychological and emotional challenges. This article explores these challenges, discusses the potential benefits, and presents personal experiences and anecdotes from families who have experienced similar situations.

Adaptability and Understanding the World

Growing up with a parent in a career that involves frequent relocations can teach children valuable lessons in adaptability and the world.

According to military veteran parents, children learn how to adjust to new environments quickly and gain a broader worldview. The experience allows them to understand different cultures, values, and ways of life. As a result, they develop a better understanding of the world, enhancing their global mindset.

Impact on Long-Term Friendships

While the frequent relocations offer a wealth of new experiences and learning opportunities, they can also disrupt the development of long-term friendships. Some children may envy those who have known their friends from a very young age and formed lifelong bonds. However, the adaptability skills developed can also lead to new friendships and connections in different parts of the world.

Choice Between Boarding Schools or Living with Grandparents

For military children, the choice between boarding school or living with grandparents can be significant. Boarding schools offer a structured environment and educational stability, while living with grandparents can provide a sense of continuity and familiar surroundings. Ultimately, parents often base their decision on what they believe is best for their child's well-being or career advancement.

Emotional and Educational Affects

There is a delicate balance to be struck between a child's emotional well-being and the parent's career development. Continuous schooling can be advantageous for the child, but it is crucial to weigh the emotional impact of frequent moves and the importance of developing lasting relationships. Emotional and educational development should be carefully considered, but there is no evidence of significant mental health problems among children who experience these life changes.

Personal Experiences in International Relocations

Two parents share their experiences and the outcomes for their children. In the first case, the child attended public schools in the USA and international schools in the Philippines and Hong Kong. The son, now with a PhD and a good job, has come through without any discernible psychological or mental problems. He has a loving family and is thriving both personally and professionally.

In the second case, former US President Barack Obama's mother similarly relocated her son to Indonesia and then back to Hawaii for high school, before moving him to the mainland for college. Despite these moves, he turned out to be successful and healthy.

The experiences of the author and her four children are also shared. All children attended a variety of good schools and developed robust friendships and adaptability skills. They have all graduated from college, have fulfilling careers, and are generally happy and well-adjusted adults. Although they sometimes joke about the number of schools they attended, they seem to have no lingering emotional or mental issues.

Conclusion

While the decision to move children frequently due to a parent's career can present challenges, the overall impact on their emotional and psychological well-being appears to be minimal. The ability to adapt and the educational opportunities can greatly benefit children in the long run. The key is to find a balance that supports both the parent's career development and the child's emotional and educational growth.

Parents should consider the long-term benefits and potential challenges before making such decisions. Relying on personal experiences and anecdotal evidence, it appears that children can thrive despite these life changes, provided the right support and guidance are in place.