TCKS: THE STRUGGLE OF MULTICULTURALISM AND THE PURSUIT OF IDENTITY

Abstract

Language acquisition and Identity loss in what is called ‘Third Culture Kids’ [1] has been an ongoing topic of interest throughout the years. Linguists and psychologists have been tackling this issue and reaching satisfactory results that show us the flexibility of TCKs’ thinking. This paper explores the phenomenon of bilingualism and multilingualism in ‘Third Culture Kids’ of refugees/immigrants and the repercussion it might have on one’s identity following the struggle to find and relate to a specific culture. It aims at pointing out the different language changes Third Culture Kids face and their effect regarding their mental and emotional stability. This research is illustrated by an interview and a questionnaire from two different articles, which were carefully analyzed to demonstrate and explain in depth the fluidity of TCKs. The study is conducted through an observatory, explanatory and analytical approach. The results suggest that TCKs are more apt to learn a foreign language easily and adapt themselves to a new culture but tend to be emotionally drained and unstable due to the different cultural backgrounds they have.