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Children of ISIS: considerations regarding trauma, treatment and risk
Nathan Brooks1, Vaishnavi Honnavalli2, Briar Jacobson-Lang3
1College of Psychology, Central Queensland University, Townsville, QLD, Australia.
Insights
Children returning from ISIS are at high risk for depression and anxiety due to trauma exposure. Developmental Trauma Disorder is considered, necessitating tailored psychological support and interventions for these child soldiers.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- International Relations
Background:
- The Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) utilized child soldiers, exposing them to violence and extremist ideology.
- Children returning from ISIS face significant psychological and physical trauma.
- This issue affects children returning to countries like Australia, the UK, and Europe.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the mental health impacts of child soldiery within ISIS.
- To explore potential diagnoses such as Developmental Trauma Disorder (DTD).
- To discuss interventions and support systems for affected children.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on child soldiers and trauma.
- Examination of psychological symptomology and risk assessment tools.
- Discussion of therapeutic interventions and support services.
Main Results:
- Trauma exposure in child soldiers is linked to increased depression, anxiety, and externalizing problems.
- Developmental Trauma Disorder (DTD) is a relevant consideration due to prolonged trauma.
- Psychometric tools and psychological services are crucial for assessment and support.
Conclusions:
- Returning child soldiers require specialized mental health care.
- Early intervention and appropriate psychological services are vital for recovery.
- Addressing the complex trauma experienced by these children is paramount.
Abstract:
The rise of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) brought with it a new wave of child soldier. This was characterised by media and propaganda circulating of children as young as four being exposed to detonators and rifles, along with perpetrating acts of violence. However, since the dismantling of ISIS, many of these children are now returning home to countries such as Australia and those in the United Kingdom and Europe; having been exposed to extremist Islamic ideology, radicalisation, and psychological and physical abuse. This review highlights that the trauma experienced by the child soldiers increases the possibility of symptomology associated with depression, anxiety, and externalising problems. Due to the complex and prolonged exposure to trauma, Developmental Trauma Disorder (DTD) is considered. Alongside mental health symptomology, psychometric risk assessment tools are examined, and suitable psychological services are discussed as possible interventions and support systems for children.
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