Preparing Missionary Couples for Cultural Stress

by Sue Eenigenburg

Culture shock and the stress it brings is a normal part of the adjustments missionaries and their families make when they take an assignment in a foreign country. In her article published by Evangelical Mission Quarterly, Sue Eeinenburg, 2008, provides a list of common stressors missionaries might face and another of how to be proactive when confronted by such stressors.

Stressors Missionary Couples May Face on the Field

1. Lack of privacy

2. Prohibition on public displays of affection

3. Extraordinary time together at home

4. Competition in language learning

5. Competition in ministry and effectiveness of ministry

6. Physical distress

7. Emotional issues

8. Undue pressure

9. Treatment of spouse

10. Spending time together

11. Expectations of roles

12. The new environment

Being proactive in Facing the Stressors

1. Before leaving to the field, couples should discuss their roles and expectations of each other.

2. Before leaving for the field, couples should take time to learn all they can about culture stress and the new place where they are moving.

3. Before new couples arrive to the field, teams already on the field should do all they can to help the new couple prepare.

4. While on the field, couples find outlets to deal with culture stress.

5. When facing culture stress, couples need to turn to scripture.

(EMQ, October 2008, Vol. 44, No. 4)

If you would like to know more about this article and the author, you can subscribe to EMQ Online at http://www.emqonline.com/ .