The impact of childhood maltreatment on treatment outcomes for posttraumatic stress symptoms and aggression in male former combatants using narrative exposure therapy [NET] - results from a RCT in Eastern democratic Republic of Congo

CSA among former soldiers was significantly associated with a higher prevalence of PTSD and increased risk of both sexual revictimization and the perpetration of sexual and other violent acts. FORNET demonstrates effectiveness in reducing appetitive aggression, PTSD symptoms, and violent behavior even in the subgroup highly affected by CSA - showing an even greater impact on current violent behavior. The ability of NET to address trauma and perpetration in a chronological sequence and adapt to the specific challenges of CSA likely account for its effectiveness in treating this complexly traumatized population, ultimately contributing to a reduction of violence in post-conflict communities. Special attention should be paid to revictimization during the rehabilitation process of ex-combatants.