The Foreign Service Journal, June 2013

THE FOREIGN SERVICE JOURNAL | JUNE 2013 101 Moving overseas with teenagers can be a great adventure, andmany students thrive in this lifestyle of global mobility. ance also supports therapeutic schools and programs as an option for families. The right therapeutic intervention might make all the difference between a student who learns how to cope with the chal- lenges and one who suffers. Some Closing Thoughts Moving overseas with teenagers can be a great adventure, and many students thrive in this lifestyle of global mobility. They love the thrill of adventure, appreci- ate cultural diversity and embrace the life of the expat teen. Teens who have portable interests and talents or skills seem to be able to adapt more easily to new aca- demic, social and physical environments. However, not all teens are able to cope with the changes that come with an international move. In particular, students who have difficulty learning, interacting with peers or interpreting social cues often struggle more. Sometimes the inability to adjust to a new environment results in maladaptive behaviors, self-harm and mental health issues. No parents want their child to suffer, and no parents move with the intent of hurting their child’s development. But it is essential for parents to look at “the big picture” when bidding on posts overseas, to be sure that their teenager’s academic, social and emotional needs will be met. Selecting the right school can make all the difference. n