The Truth About TCKs You Probably Don't Know With Tanya Crossman

Have you ever wondered how growing up overseas shapes a child—both the good and the challenging? What if some of the struggles TCKs face could be prevented with the right support? And as a missionary parent, how do you balance your own well-being while making sure your kids are emotionally cared for?

In this episode, from her research of more than 2,000 third culture kids, TCK expert Tanya Crossman unpacks groundbreaking statistics and new information on the hidden struggles of Third Culture Kids, including the impact of trauma, emotional neglect, and parental stress.But don’t worry—this conversation is packed with hope!

Tanya shares powerful ways to help TCKs heal, build resilience, and thrive in their unique upbringing.

Whether you're raising TCKs, serving them, or one yourself, this episode is full of eye-opening insights and practical tools you won’t want to miss!

Resources Mentioned:

1. TCK Training

📌 Website: https://www.tcktraining.com/
TCK Training provides research-based resources, training, and coaching for Third Culture Kids (TCKs) and their families. Their work focuses on helping TCKs develop resilience, navigate transitions, and process childhood experiences.

• Resources for TCKs: https://www.tcktraining.com/courses
  • Includes guides, videos, courses and tools to help TCKs navigate challenges.
• Research Reports & White Papers: https://www.tcktraining.com/research
  • Publishes research on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and mental health in TCKs.
  • Offers downloadable white papers on findings related to TCK well-being.

2. Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) Study

📌 Overview: The ACE study examines how difficult childhood experiences impact mental and physical health in adulthood. The TCK Training team applied this research to TCKs, finding that TCKs often have higher ACE scores in certain areas (such as parental mental health challenges and emotional neglect).
📌 Learn More: https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/aces/index.html

3. Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs)

📌 Overview: PCEs research, led by Dr. Christina Bethel, looks at protective factors that help children build resilience despite adversity.
📌 Key Factors for Resilience:

• Strong relationships with at least two caring adults (not just parents).
• Feeling part of a community.
• Having a sense of belonging in school or a peer group.
• Engaging in meaningful traditions.
   📌 Learn More: https://bit.ly/43GP2qA

4. "Misunderstood" by Tanya Cro

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