An Examination of Mental Health Promotion within International Schools and Current Reform Practices that can Benefit Third Culture Kids

Abstract

The rising prevalence of adolescent mental health problems has created a need for increased public health programming in schools. Globalization and the expansion of the International Baccalaureate programs have led to higher numbers of Third Culture Kids (TCKs) attending international schools worldwide. Our review highlights unique characteristics of TCKs and presents a tactical blueprint to meet mental health needs. The first step was to develop an overview of existing mental health promotion practices implemented in national schools across the globe and the research that influenced their development. A second step was to provide suggestions for the application of these blueprints and resultant programs within international schools.