The Pros And Cons Of Adolescent Development

According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, transition is “a change from one state or condition to another”. By the sound of the definition from the dictionary, transition seems to be a simple, easy process. But in reality, transition is actually a messy, complicated, emotional process. This rings true the most for adolescents who are developing. According to David Pollock:
Each transition changes something in our lives. Some transitions are normal and progressive – we accept them […] Sometimes these life transitions include physical moves from one place to another, such as when a young person goes off to university in another state. In most cases, we know these transitions are coming and have time to prepare for them. Other transitions, however, are sudden and disruptive – such as the unexpected loss of job, serious injury, or the untimely death of a loved one. Life after these

This group of people is known as Cross-Cultural Kids, but more specifically, Third Culture Kids (TCKs). There has been a lot of globalization and technological improvement throughout the years. Globalization and technological improvement have eased “travel in today’s world” and “converged to create an unprecedented number of children being raised overseas” (). According to Pollock and Van Reken (2001):
A Third Culture Kid (TCK) is a person who has spent a significant part of his or her developmental years outside the parents’ culture. The TCK frequently builds relationships to all of the cultures, while not having full ownership in any. Although elements from each culture are assimilated into the TCK’s life experience, the sense of belonging is in relationship to others of similar background [other TCKs]. (p.