Globe-Trotter Academy

This study focuses on expatriate couples facing the challenges of adjusting to life in a foreign country. It explores how the intercultural personality traits (emotional stability, social initiative, open-mindedness) of expatriates and their spouses impact their adjustment to living abroad.Study : Van Erp, Kim J. P. M., Karen I. van der Zee, Ellen Giebels, and […]

Trailing spouses accompanying expatriates on international assignments face significant challenges adjusting to new environments. These challenges include culture shock, isolation, navigating different healthcare systems, housing, schooling, and employment.

Study: Webber, E-L., & Vögel, A.J. (2019). The preparation, training and support requirements of expatriate trailing spouses. South African Journal of Economic and Management Sciences, 22(1), a2703.

Focusing on expatriates’ coping mechanisms, this study explores the link between stress, substance use, and professional adjustment. It emphasizes the need for organizations to provide robust support systems to address these hidden yet impactful challenges.

Study: “Expatriation, Alcohol, and Drugs: Antecedents and Consequences of Substance Use in Expatriation” by Olivier Wurtz

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Growing up across borders creates a unique, hybrid identity. In this episode, we delve into the lives of Third Culture Kids, exploring how they construct a sense of home and belonging amid constant change. Study : Lijadi, A. A., & Van Schalkwyk, G. J. (2017). Place identity construction of Third Culture Kids: Eliciting voices of […]

Examining the evolution of diplomatic spouses’ roles, this study highlights shifts from traditional unpaid labor to more formalized roles and independent pursuits. It also explores ongoing challenges related to representation and inclusion within diplomatic circles. Study: “The Changing Culture of Diplomatic Spouses: Some Fieldnotes from Brussels” by Annabel Black Dig deeper in this study here! […]

In this episode of Globe-Trotter Academy, we explore the critical connection between family adjustment and expatriate performance, with the study “The Relationship Between Family Adjustment and Expatriate Performance” by D. Trompetter, M. Bussin, and R. Nienaber. The research highlights how family dynamics and support systems influence the success of international assignments. Dig deeper in this […]

What does it take to adapt to a life of constant relocations? In this episode, we explore how adjustment and social support shape the well-being of diplomatic spouses. Study: “The Diplomatic Spouse: Relationships Between Adjustment, Social Support, and Satisfaction with Life” by Svala Gudmundsdottir, Thorhallur Orn Gudlaugsson, and Gylfi Dalmann Adalsteinsson Dig deeper in this study […]

This timely study examines how the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated stress and burnout in foreign service spouses. It identifies resilience and organizational support as critical factors in managing these challenges, offering recommendations for future crises. Study: Gudmundsdottir, S., Larsen, K., Woods Nelson, M., Devine Mildorf, J., & Molek-Winiarska, D. “Burnout and Resilience in Foreign Service Spouses during […]