Samenvatting

This paper examines the factors which contribute to the intercultural adaptation of expatriate children. Although there are not many studies on this subject, there is evidence that the expatriate children are facing a difficult time during expatriation. Intercultural adaption consists of psychological adaptation and social-cultural adaptation. Factors which influence these facets of adaptation are the characteristics of the child, attachment style, family s i t u a t i o n a n d t h e i n t e r n a t i o n a l s c h o o l . Characteristics that are a positively related to adaptation are cultural empathy, open-mindedness, emotional stability, flexibility and taking social initiative. Especially emotional stability shows a strong relationship with the intercultural adaptation. Children who posses these characteristics are better at dealing with daily life problems. Attachment style is another factor, which influences the adaptation. A secure attachment style shows a positive relationship with the psychological adaptation and social-cultural adaptation. Neglected/ambivalent style, on the other hand, is negative related with psychological adaptation and social-cultural adaptation. The family situation is the third factor, which plays a role in the adaptation process. Children from families, which show a high level of cohesion, high quality of communication and a high level of adaptability feel more inter- culturally adapted. International schools should anticipate the special needs of expatriate children by providing well-trained educators and language lessons so the children can overcome their language barrier and communicate and establish friendships.