ASK Dr Devi Raj
NRI AND EXPATRIATE PARENTING :
10 Questions Parents Ask
NRI AND EXPATRIATE PARENTING :
10 Questions Parents Ask
“Ask Dr. Devi Raj” is a practical psychology knowledge library for parents, adolescents, adults and families looking for clear answers to common emotional, behavioural, developmental and parenting concerns.
The answers are educational and should not be used as a substitute for individual psychological assessment, diagnosis, medical advice or emergency support.
1. Why does my child abroad refuse to speak Malayalam?
The dominant social language may feel easier or more socially useful. Avoid shame and make Malayalam part of positive family connection.
2. Should Malayali parents abroad insist children speak Malayalam?
Encourage rather than punish. Stories, conversations, grandparents, films and visits can build emotional motivation to use the language.
3. Why does my child feel more connected to another country than Kerala?
Children naturally form identity around where they grow up. A blended cultural identity is not necessarily a rejection of Kerala.
4. What is a third-culture child?
A third-culture child grows up significantly outside their parents' original culture and develops an identity influenced by multiple cultural environments.
5. Why does my child behave differently when we visit Kerala?
Different expectations, relatives, climate, routines and cultural norms can make visits emotionally demanding.
6. Why does my teenager not want to move back to Kerala?
The move may involve loss of friends, school identity, independence and familiar surroundings.
7. How can NRI parents keep children connected with grandparents?
Regular meaningful conversations, shared activities, stories and visits usually work better than forced interaction.
8. Why is parenting abroad sometimes more stressful?
Parents may have less extended-family support while managing work, cultural differences, childcare and school expectations.
9. Can moving countries affect children's mental health?
Yes. Relocation can involve excitement as well as grief, anxiety, loneliness and identity disruption.
10. How should parents prepare children before relocating?
Explain the change honestly, involve them where possible, preserve routines and help them maintain important relationships.
"Ask Dr Devi Raj" - Knowledge Hub
"Ask Dr Devi Raj" - Knowledge Hub is a practical psychology knowledge library for parents, adolescents, adults and families looking for clear answers to common emotional, behavioural, developmental and parenting concerns.
Dr. Devi Raj is a Developmental Psychologist, Certified Life Coach and Child Behaviour Specialist with over 15 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, and families. At Pranaah Psychological Counselling Centre, she provides evidence-based psychological assessments, parenting guidance, developmental interventions, and emotional wellbeing services for families across Kollam, Karunagappally, Kerala, and through online consultations worldwide.
Disclaimer
This content is intended for general educational information and does not replace individual psychological assessment, diagnosis, medical advice or emergency care.