WOMEN ON THE MOVE grew out of the personal experiences of the author as she accompanied her husband to Europe on a business assignment. It proved to be a stressful move. In her efforts to cope, she learned two very important things: first, that many people shared her problems and, second, that the insights and strengths she derived from her Christian beliefs provided the key to successful cultural adaptation.

Rev. Janssen has now woven those insights into a practical guide that will be invaluable to those who wish to tap the strength of their religious convictions in dealing with the stresses of living in a new environment. The many biblical examples and exercises help the reader to grow through the process of adjustment by seeing the move as an opportunity, not a liability.

The author begins by describing her own experiences and those of the many women she interviewed and surveyed in writing this book. She then examines in depth the experience of culture shock and cross-cultural adaptation process.

From this discussion emerge two critical questions that each individual must answer: who are you and where are you going? This involves the examination of central roles and relationships. It also means coming face-to-face with God and drawing strength from self-definition in the context of faith.

In the end Rev. Janssen offers to those engaged in cross-cultural moves the hope embodied in the traditional Christian message: rely on strength that can be derived from faith in God.

Gretchen Janssen has lived six years abroad, part of the time in The Netherlands and part in Denmark. She is a psychotherapist practicing in New York and New Jersey, a member of The American Association of Pastoral Counselors and an ordained pastor in The Presbyterian Church.