The Psychological Impact of Relocating to a New Country with Parents: Insights from a Multinational Family
Relocating to a new country, especially as a child, can be a challenging and transformative experience. This article delves into the emotional and psychological impact of such a move, drawing from personal experiences and insights shared by individuals who have lived through this process. For this particular narrative, we explore the story of a family that has traversed several countries across Asia and Europe, shedding light on the diverse emotions and challenges faced by children during international relocations.
Introduction
Having parents who hail from one country while being born in another can create unique experiences, especially when one ventures into international movements. The journey can be complex, marked by significant personal and familial sacrifices. Our story focuses on the experiences of a 31-year-old individual whose family originated from Hong Kong, but who was born in Singapore. This narrative offers a lens into the emotional impact of moving across continents, particularly noteworthy in the context of the UN's humanitarian efforts and the challenges faced by families attempting to integrate into new societies.
A Personal Account of Relocating to Multiple Countries
From the age of 5 until 15, the author lived in six different countries, primarily due to their father’s work with the UN. Here, we chronicle these experiences in detail:
Relocation to Tajikistan (Age 5/6)
At just five or six years old, the author and their family moved to Tajikistan. Despite the young age, highlights of the experience include the first encounter with snow, the process of roasting and eating pistachios, and the enjoyment of storytelling with cousins from Bangladesh. These simple yet meaningful moments provide a foundation for the child’s early exploration of new cultural landscapes.
Life in Bosnia and Herzegovina (Age 6-8)
At around 6 to 8 years of age, the author’s family relocated to Bosnia and Herzegovina. This period marked the beginning of formal education, adaptation to a new language, and cultural integration. The child quickly picked up German language via cartoons, while navigating a new educational environment. Engaging in independent travel, the child also forged friendships with peers who spoke different languages, fostering a sense of community and resilience.
Learning in Israel (Age 8-10)
From the age of 8 to 10, the author lived in Israel, a period marked by vivid and memorable experiences. The family had special permission from the UN, allowing them to travel to Israel despite travel restrictions for their country of origin. Key memories include cultural differences, such as the author’s dark skin being admired, and the introduction to new fruits like cherries and pears. This period of adjustment and integration further enriched the child’s understanding of diverse cultures.
Psychological Impact and Adaptation
Relocating to new countries can pose significant challenges for children, including feelings of alienation, cultural shock, and adjusting to new educational and social environments. Below are some of the common emotional and psychological impacts observed:
Cultural Shock and Alienation
Each relocation brought new environments and societal norms. The child experienced initial feelings of alienation, particularly in Bosnia where they were one of the few non-local children, and in Israel, where cultural differences were stark. These experiences highlight the importance of community integration and the role of schools and local organizations in supporting new arrivals.
Resilience and Adaptation
Despite the challenges, each move also offered opportunities for learning and growth. Language acquisition, such as picking up German and later English, played a crucial role in overcoming hurdles. Making friends from diverse backgrounds in Bosnia helped build a network of support, while the variety of fruits in Israel introduced the child to new tastes and experiences, enriching their cultural awareness.
Conclusion
Relocating to a new country, especially during childhood, is a journey filled with both difficulties and rewards. Our story illustrates the emotional and psychological impacts of these experiences, emphasizing the importance of cultural adaptability, resilience, and social support. These insights can inform both policymakers and parents navigating the challenges of international relocations, ensuring that such experiences are as enriching as possible for the young individuals involved.