Hi,

It seems to me that your child is displaying Resistant Attachment - She is upset when you leave and remains upset when you return even though she is also happy to be with you, especially since she spent such a long time with you before you went to work overseas. I guess as much as she is happy to see you again, she is upset that you will leave her again. This is a form of insecure attachment and may have a negative effect on your future relationship with her and possibly other future relationships for her. I would seek professional advice since your situation is not a common one. It's possible that she will react more positively as she grows older, especially if the breaks apart from you and her are consistent. I suggest you spend as much time with her as possible, when possible, make certain that she knows she is loved and explain to her why you have to be away from her. She may not be able to fully understand now but as she grows older, she will. Be consistent. It's very important that she doesn't blame herself for the long periods of separation. Also, when away from her try to maintain contact with her regularly via telephone, internet or letters/postcards. Let her know that you are still thinking of her when you are away from her. I hope everything works out for you and your family.

Good luck.