Acculturation and Intercultural Learning of Missionaries, Their Families, and the Role of Women in the Christian Mission—A Review of Literature from 1954 to 2010

Abstract

This literature review summarises a wide range of empirical and systematic studies published between 1954 and 2010, including anthropological, cultural, historical, psychological, and sociological perspectives still underrepresented in cross-cultural communication and competence. Missionaries’ adaptation and acculturation, as well as of their families to new social and cultural environments and during reintegration at home are characterised by stressful experiences such as critical life events, premature termination, and upcoming retirements. Other studies highlight that certain personality traits and an ability to cope with psychological stress can predict the effectiveness of a mission assignment, e.g., spiritual and organisational commitment and expectations. Additionally, the review brings to light different role orientations of missionary wives, the psychological well-being within marriage, and the role of women in the Christian mission. Eventually, all findings will be subject to critical analysis and be instrumental in providing future research perspectives.