Children of former child soldiers and never-conscripted civilians: A preliminary intergenerational study in burundi

Authors

Suzan J. Song, Asian Americans for Community Involvement of Santa Clara County, Inc.
Joop De Jong, Universiteit van Amsterdam
Ruth O'Hara, Stanford University
Cheryl Koopman, Stanford University

Document Type

Journal Article

Publication Date

8-1-2013

Journal

Journal of Aggression, Maltreatment and Trauma

Volume

22

Issue

7

DOI

10.1080/10926771.2013.813881

Keywords

child soldiers; family; intergenerational; postconflict; psychosocial

Abstract

Studies around the world show that former child soldiers (FCSs) have mental health strengths and limitations, and highlight the important role of families and communities in reintegration to society. However, there are limited data that examine the mental health risks and protective factors of the offspring of FCSs, especially as compared to civilian populations. We compare psychological, social, and familial factors between FCSs and civilian parents and children. This article discusses the importance of evaluating the children of FCSs from an ecological perspective through longitudinal studies as well as interventions that incorporate family-centered care. © 2013 Taylor and Francis Group, LLC.

APA Citation

Song, S., De Jong, J., O'Hara, R., & Koopman, C. (2013). Children of former child soldiers and never-conscripted civilians: A preliminary intergenerational study in burundi. Journal of Aggression, Maltreatment and Trauma, 22 (7). http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/10926771.2013.813881