The Circumstances and the Problems of Raising Children in Overseas: The Interview Research for Parents at a Japanese School

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative research study was to explore the circumstances and the problems of raising children in overseas, and their availability of mental health and social resources. Three parents who had lived overseas were individually interviewed, and questioned about the social and emotional problems they had encountered, and mental health and social resources that were available, while overseas. Analyses of the interviews revealed that the primary problems were that they were alone, experienced loss of loved ones, and has limited supportive resources. The need for greater supports and resources for Japanese mothers living overseas is indicated, including those that promote teacher-parent relationships.