Principles of Help for Children Involved in Organised Violence

This paper discusses how to meet the developmental needs of children affected by organized violence. It examines the assumptions underlying proffered support and challenges the application of concepts and interventions derived from other countries. In particular, the current emphasis on symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and the need for "trauma counselling" are queried. The author argues that little importance is placed on the child's social and economic environment or community support, and that, by relying solely on professional intervention, the autonomy and initiative of communities and the support available to children are weakened.