Addressing Heightened Levels of Aggression in Traumatized Offenders With Psychotherapeutic Means

Addressing Heightened Levels of Aggression in Traumatized Offenders With Psychotherapeutic Means: A Randomized Controlled Trial in Eastern DR Congo

Heightened levels of aggression are fuelling violent incidents at all levels, especially in post-war regions. Narrative Exposure Therapy for Forensic Offender Rehabilitation (FORNET) aims to address trauma symptoms along with reactive and instrumental/appetitive aggression to encounter the downward cycle of perpetration and enforce a sustainable (re-)integration into civil life. In the present study, the investigators provide an adapted version of FORNET to former combatants in the North Kivu, Eastern DR Congo. Structured baseline, 3 and 6 month follow up interviews will be administered to assess the main outcome measures recent violent acts and appetitive aggression.

Participants will be recruited through local NGOs and eligible clients randomized to the treatment or waitlist control group, respectively. The treatment will be provided by supervised local counsellors after a 4-week training. At baseline, 3-month and 6-month follow up, sociodemographic data, trauma exposure, perpetrated violent acts, PTSD, recent aggression, functionality and drug dependency will be assessed. The interviews will be conducted by blind Congolese psychological interviewers after an intensive 3-weeks training and continuous supervision.

Eligibility criteria

• Former participant of an armed group in DR Congo
• Involvement in violent attacks

Inclusion Criteria:

• PTSD diagnosis or AAS sum score of 22 or higher

Exclusion Criteria:

• Acute intoxification (alcohol or other drugs)
• Acute psychotic symptoms
• Sign of cerebro-organic diseases