Marginalization of girl mothers during reintegration from armed groups in Sierra Leone

Abstract

The findings raise important questions about marginalization of girls affected by war. Girls and girl mothers experience an extremely high level of marginalization; however, some aspects are not consistent with the original conceptualization of marginalization. Theory development in nursing needs to incorporate multiple voices, especially those of the very marginalized and be done in such a manner that benefits and empowers.

Protective and risk factors of psychosocial wellbeing related to the reintegration of former child soldiers in Nepal

“…For many adults, child soldiers are seen as threatening and morally corrupt (Boyden, 2003). It is well documented that former child soldiers struggle with community stigma upon return home (Burman & McKay, 2007;Denov & Maclure, 2007;Kohrt et al, 2010;Shakya, 2010). This is also supported by our present ¢ndings, connecting low social support with higher levels of mental health problems.…”

Building meaningful participation in reintegration among war-affected young mothers in Liberia, Sierra Leone and northern Uganda

“…These analyses have clearly shown the discrimination and neglect in disarmament, demilitarisation and reintegration (DDR) programmes, especially within the context of sub Saharan Africa (Annan et al, in press;Betancourt et al, 2010;Burman & McKay, 2007;Denov, 2008;Denov, 2010;McKay & Mazurana, 2004;McKay et al, 2006;McKay et al, 2010;Wessells, 2006;Wessells, 2010;Worthen et al, 2010). When formerly recruited young women and girls return to communities, they are typically socially isolated and experience significant psychosocial distress, which poses major barriers to their reintegration.…”

The invisible soldiers: understanding how the life experiences of girl child soldiers impacts upon their health and rehabilitation needs

“…They are left to provide and care for their children alone. Studies record the high incidence of former girl soldiers who engage in commercial sex work in order to support themselves, putting them at risk of further sexual violence and STIs and increasing the stigmatisation 6 8 35…”