The Psychological Legacy of Child Soldiering: Longitudinal Rehabilitation Outcomes in Post-Conflict Zones

Global Journal of Peace and Conflict Studies | Vol. 6, No. 4, April 2015 | pp. 460–468

DOI: 10.46882/2015/GJPCS/000073

Article Type: Original Research Paper

Title: The Psychological Legacy of Child Soldiering: Longitudinal Rehabilitation Outcomes in Post-Conflict Zones

Names of Authors: Sahr Mathew Kamara¹, Agnes Arach²

Authors’ Affiliations: ¹Department of Psychology, Fourah Bay College, Freetown, Sierra Leone; ²Faculty of Peace and Strategic Studies, Gulu University, Gulu, Uganda

Abstract: Abstract: The reintegration of former child soldiers into post-conflict communities is a deeply complex psychological and sociological challenge. This study presents a longitudinal evaluation of psychological rehabilitation outcomes among 250 former child combatants five years after the completion of formal disarmament programs. Mental health outcomes were evaluated using standardized clinical instruments measuring Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, and social adjustment. The psychological testing shows that high levels of trauma symptoms persist, with 42% of participants meeting the clinical threshold for PTSD (Mean Score = 48.5 ± 6.2). Regression analysis confirms that community stigmatization and a lack of formal education options are the strongest predictors of prolonged psychological distress (R² = 0.51, p < 0.001). Conversely, participation in traditional community cleansing rituals was strongly associated with better social adaptation scores. The study demonstrates that western-centric clinical models must be closely paired with culturally grounded community practices to optimize healing. The paper highlights the critical need for long-term mental health funding that extends far beyond initial post-conflict disarmament timelines.

Keywords: Child Soldiers, Psychological Trauma, Reintegration, PTSD, Longitudinal Study, Community Healing, Psychosocial Rehabilitation

Manuscript Timeline: Received: November 12, 2014; Revised: January 18, 2015; Accepted: February 20, 2015; Published: April 09, 2015

Citation: Kamara, S. M., & Arach, A. (2015). The Psychological Legacy of Child Soldiering: Longitudinal Rehabilitation Outcomes in Post-Conflict Zones. Global Journal of Peace and Conflict Studies, 6(4), 460–468. DOI: 10.46882/2015/GJPCS/000073

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