Developmental Tasks in the Life Cycle of Mission Families

Abstract

This study focuses on some of the developmental tasks common to mission families. These tasks are discussed in terms of McGoldrick and Carter's (1982) six stages of the family life cycle. A tripartite developmental model of the mission family is also presented which takes into account the interaction of the family life cycle, individual psychosocial development, and the stages of mission involvement. Considering family developmental tasks in light of this model serves to organize and clarify the various adjustment challenges of mission families.