This study of the process of readjustment for secondary students returning home after
twelve months abroad was investigated from a family perspective. Although
researchers suggest that interactions between the student and others in the home
environment facilitate smooth readjustment, little is known about how the family relates
during this transition period.
In this study, the interactional dynamics within the family during the student's
readjustment were explored. Theoretical concepts from systems theory and family
developmental theory were used to further understanding of the interactional processes
within the family system.
A multiple single-case study research design was employed, where eight families were
interviewed at three points in time: one month before the student's return; one month
after the student's return: and at four to five months after return. All family members
were interviewed at each stage, using a semi-structured interview guide designed to
gather data about family relationships during this period.
Changes in family dynamics between siblings, the returnee student, and parents, were a
significant finding of this study, although these changes varied across families. A
family perspective of the readjustment process was collated from descriptive accounts
from family members, where four phases of the family experience could generally be
described: excitement, uncertainty, rediscovery and reorganisation of the family
system.
It was concluded that the study showed evidence that the readjustment process was
influenced by the interactions and interrelationships within the family, where not only
the student had changed but also the family.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:ADTP/219359 |
| Date | January 1997 |
| Creators | Stoeckel, Helen, n/a |
| Publisher | University of Canberra. Professional & Community Education |
| Source Sets | Australiasian Digital Theses Program |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Rights | ), Copyright Helen Stoeckel |
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