Third Culture Kids (TCKs) are children of expatriates who spend a significant part of their upbringing in a culture different from their own or their parents’ nationality. The term TCK stems from the presence of three cultural influences in their lives: their heritage culture(s), the host country culture(s), and the culture of expatriates and other TCKs.

 A systematic review of the empirical literature explored how growing up as a TCK influences one’s identity and sense of belonging. It identified themes related to identity, such as identity negotiation, cultural multiplicity, and a persistent sense of being an outsider in their country of origin. Regarding belonging, the themes included feeling like they belong everywhere and nowhere, finding a sense of home with other cross-cultural individuals, and identifying as a TCK as their home.

The review revealed that, contrary to earlier assumptions, TCKs are not confused by their multiple identities. Instead, their identities do not align with mainstream concepts of identity. Some TCKs described themselves as chameleonic, capable of adapting and blending into different contexts. While elements from each culture become part of a TCK’s identity, they often feel a stronger connection with other TCKs and their community than with their host or heritage cultures. A vital subtheme highlighted the importance of finding other TCKs and identifying as a TCK to foster a sense of belonging.

Behavioral health clinicians (BHCs) from traditional mental health backgrounds often face identity challenges when transitioning into primary care roles. They leave their initial professional culture behind to enter a new, unfamiliar environment. Viewing this new space as a third culture can alleviate the pressure to conform to a second culture, encouraging the development of multiple co-existing identities while enhancing flexibility and resilience.

Integrated clinicians, much like TCKs, often feel more professionally supported when among others who understand this integrated role. I’ve heard others mention, and have experienced myself, a sense of belonging linked to attending the Collaborative Family Healthcare Association (CFHA) Annual Conference. Regardless of CFHA membership, if you’re building, facing challenges, or have wholeheartedly embraced an integrated care identity, I encourage you to join us this fall in Raleigh, North Carolina.

 This year’s event, themed “Breaking Boundaries: Redefining Access and Expansion in Integrated Care,” will challenge our definitions of access, delivery, and integration in healthcare. It offers interprofessional teams an opportunity to rethink their role in shaping the future of family-centered care. The conference will be filled with colleagues inhabiting third spaces, united by shared ideas and passion, eager to engage with one another—all as third culture clinicians (TCCs).

Photo by Leiada Krözjhen on Unsplash