Child Soldiers In The Military Essay

The reality for many child soldiers is that even after their time in the military ends, there are lasting affects that continue even after their time participating in the war is over. These former child soldiers may face psychological issues, ranging from depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, as well as many other mental health issues. They may also suffer with social issues. They may not be accepted back into their families or communities, as they may be branded as a traitor, dangerous, or untrustworthy. In the case of former female child soldiers, they may be branded as impure. This lack of integration may lead to isolation, which poses other negative consequences related to substance abuse or conflict within future relationships. Simply because the former child soldier is removed from the warfront doesn’t mean that the war isn’t over for these former child soldiers.
There are two sides to this debate. First it seems necessary to discuss what is currently being done within different regions. Of course there are international organizations and NGOs that have implemented programs throughout the world to help child soldiers receive proper rehabilitation in order to readapt to society. For example, in Gulu, Uganda World Vision has implemented a program that offers rehabilitation through both individual and group counseling sessions in conjunction with Christian teachings. World Vision also meets with the families of the former child soldiers to better help with the integration process. World Vision did acknowledge that these programs work best when the full rehabilitation experience is utilized that accepted by an individual. What this rehabilitation program doesn’t seem to offer are programs that teach skills necessary to obtain a