Effects

What is the aftermath like?

Physical:

Unfortuantely, many children are killed or maimed during their time as soldiers. They experience horrifying injuries, the worst of which leave them incapacitated. Girls may also be impregnated with children of the adult soldiers. These pregnancies force many familes to shun their own children, for carrying the child of a rebel soldier brings serious social repercussions upon the family name.

Emotional:

The emotional issues inflicted upon children in armed conflict can be just as debilitating as the the physical ones. The issue of desensitization has become extremely prevalent among children in armed conflict. Young children inw ar zones have developed a serious apathy towards violence, making reintegration into society a much more difficult process. Additionally, many children suffer from depression and PTSD due to their time spent as child soldiers.

Economic:

One of the most devastating effects would have to be the destruction of the children's future. Child soldiers lose whatever education they once received, and therefore have no access to higher education and well-paying jobs. Even if a child soldier is not imprisoned, lack of education often sentences him or her to a destitude adult life.