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Van Voorhees EE, Dillon KH, Crombach A, Beaver T, Kelton K, Wortmann JH, Visn-Mid-Atlantic Mirecc Workgroup, Nieuwsma J. Enjoying the violence of war: Association with posttraumatic symptomatology in U.S. combat veterans. PSYCHOLOGICAL TRAUMA : THEORY, RESEARCH, PRACTICE AND POLICY 2024; 16:618-625. [PMID: 37384480 PMCID: PMC10755059 DOI: 10.1037/tra0001530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Engaging in war-related violence can have a devastating impact on military personnel, with research suggesting that injuring or killing others can contribute to posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and moral injury. However, there is also evidence that perpetrating violence in war can become pleasurable to a substantial number of combatants and that developing this "appetitive" form of aggression can diminish PTSD severity. Secondary analyses were conducted on data from a study of moral injury in U.S., Iraq, and Afghanistan combat veterans, to examine the impact of recognizing that one enjoyed war-related violence on outcomes of PTSD, depression, and trauma-related guilt. METHOD Three multiple regression models evaluated the impact of endorsing the item, "I came to realize during the war that I enjoyed violence" on PTSD, depression, and trauma-related guilt, after controlling for age, gender, and combat exposure. RESULTS Results indicated that enjoying violence was positively associated with PTSD, β (SE) = 15.86 (3.02), p < .001, depression, β (SE) = 5.41 (0.98), p < .001, and guilt, β (SE) = 0.20 (0.08), p < .05. Enjoying violence moderated the relationship between combat exposure and PTSD symptoms, β (SE) = -0.28 (0.15), p < .05, such that there was a decrease in the strength of the relationship between combat exposure and PTSD in the presence of endorsing having enjoyed violence. CONCLUSIONS Implications for understanding the impact of combat experiences on postdeployment adjustment, and for applying this understanding to effectively treating posttraumatic symptomatology, are discussed. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Jennifer H Wortmann
- Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC)
| | | | - Jason Nieuwsma
- Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC)
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A possible anti-anxiety effect of appetitive aggression and a possible link to the work of Donald Winnicott. Scand J Child Adolesc Psychiatr Psychol 2022; 10:102-113. [PMID: 36133733 PMCID: PMC9454322 DOI: 10.2478/sjcapp-2022-0011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Various pleasant sensations that give a particularly intense pleasure are able to improve anxiety. In the present study I consider the possibility that their anti-anxiety action depends on the strong pleasure they provide, and I propose a possible mechanism of this action. According to some studies, also appetitive aggression (an aggression that provokes a strong pleasure and that is performed only for the pleasure it provides) can improve anxiety, and in this article I consider the possibility that the pleasure of appetitive aggression is able to reduce anxiety by the same mechanism I have proposed for other intense pleasurable sensations. The aggression performed by a child against the mother or against a substitute for the mother in the first period of life (a period in which this aggression is not dangerous) is a recurring theme throughout the work of of Donald Winnicott. Winnicott stresses that this aggression is necessary for the normal development of the child, and that the child must be free to practise it. According to Winnicott, this aggression is highly pleasurable and is not a response to unpleasant or hostile external situations. For these characteristics it seems to correspond to appetitive aggression in the adult that has been found to be able to reduce anxiety. Consequently, aggression performed by the child in the first period of life may also relieve anxiety, in the same way that appetitive aggression helps against anxiety in the adult. In his writings, Winnicott returns several times to an unthinkable or archaic anxiety that children experience when they feel abandoned by their mother for a period that is too long for them, and all children, according to Winnicott, live on the brink of this anxiety. In this study I propose the hypothesis that aggression in the early period of life may be necessary for children because the intense pleasure it provides may help them against this continuously impending anxiety.
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Ainamani HE, Weierstall-Pust R, Bahati R, Otwine A, Tumwesigire S, Rukundo GZ. Post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and the associated factors among children and adolescents with a history of maltreatment in Uganda. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2022; 13:2007730. [PMID: 35028113 PMCID: PMC8751492 DOI: 10.1080/20008198.2021.2007730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Worldwide, children who grow up under adverse conditions risk the development of mental health problems. However, reliable data on the estimated magnitude of mental disorders of PTSD, depression and their associated factors among maltreated children and adolescents in low- and middle-income-countries (LMICs) is still lacking. This study estimated the magnitude of PTSD, depression and the associated factors among the children and adolescents with ahistory of maltreatment in Southwestern Uganda. METHODS In this cross-sectional study, we assessed 232 children and adolescents on the prevalence of PTSD using Child PTSD Symptoms Scale for DSM-5 - Self-Report (CPSS-VSR) and Depression using the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale for Children (CES-DC). Predictor variables were taken from the Maltreatment and Abuse Chronology of Exposure- Paediatric Version (Pedi MACE). Logistic regressions analyses were selected for statistical modelling while odds-ratios were calculated to assess the strength of associations between the predictor and outcome variables. RESULTS In total, 140 (60%) participants fulfiled diagnostic criteria for PTSD and 91 (39%) for depression respectively. Predictor variables of PTSD were witnessing intimate partner violence (OR = 1.48, 95% CI: 1.19-1.83, p = <0.001), having lived in more than two homes (OR = 2.69, 95%CI: 1.34-5.41, p = .005), and being cared for by non-relatives (OR = 2.25; 95%CI: 2.26-223.9, p = .008). Variables predicting depression were witnessing intimate partner violence (OR = 1.30; 95%CI: 108-1.57, p = .006); being cared for by non-relatives (OR = 5.62, 95%CI: 1.36-23.1, p = .001) and being female (OR = .054, 95% CI: 0.30-1.00, p = .005). CONCLUSION Children living under adverse conditions are at a higher risk of developing PTSD and depression. We recommend interventions that aim at reducing adverse psychosocial stressors so as to improve or restore the children's mental health.Abbreviations: PTSD: Post traumatic stress disorder; LMICs: Low- and middle-income countries; IPV: Intimate partner violence; OVC: Orphans and vulnerable children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Herbert E Ainamani
- Department of Mental Health, Kabale University-School of Medicine, Kabale, Uganda
| | - Roland Weierstall-Pust
- Medical School of Hamburg Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Germany and Oberberg Group, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ronald Bahati
- Department of Public Health and Bio Medical Sciences, Bishop Stuart University, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Anne Otwine
- Department of Public Health and Bio Medical Sciences, Bishop Stuart University, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Sam Tumwesigire
- Department of Pediatrics, Kabale University School of Medicine, Kabale, Uganda
| | - Godfrey Z Rukundo
- Department of Psychiatry, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
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Schmitt S, Robjant K, Koebach A. When reintegration fails: Stigmatization drives the ongoing violence of ex-combatants in Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. Brain Behav 2021; 11:e02156. [PMID: 33942549 PMCID: PMC8213920 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.2156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Reintegration of ex-combatants involves multiple challenges. In addition to the trauma-related psychological sequelae, social obstacles in the community can aggravate psychopathological aggressive tendencies and lead to the continuation of violence in civilian life. However, the association between others' negative attitudes and ex-combatants' ongoing perpetration of violence remains largely unexplored. Between September 2018 and May 2019, we assessed a representative community sample of adults in Eastern DR Congo (N = 1,058) and measured trauma exposure, perpetration, mental health problems (PTSD, depression, and appetitive aggression), perceived stigma (shame, perceived lack of social acknowledgement), experienced stigma, and skepticism toward reintegration with ex-combatants. Male ex-combatants (12%, n = 129) had more past trauma and violence perpetration than other community members and a greater number of recent conflicts (including both victimization and perpetration) within the community and with strangers/organized violence. They reported more experienced stigma, more severe PTSD symptoms but were less skeptical about reintegration. Ex-combatants' ongoing violence was predicted by an interplay of the community's skepticism toward reintegration and ex-combatants' perceived and recently experienced stigma (often attributed to the armed group history) and mental health problems, in addition to lifetime traumatization. These findings promote the need for combined interventions that address individual mental health problems including aggression and collective discriminatory attitudes and behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Schmitt
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
- Non‐Governmental Organization Vivo InternationalKonstanzGermany
| | - Katy Robjant
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
- Non‐Governmental Organization Vivo InternationalKonstanzGermany
| | - Anke Koebach
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
- Non‐Governmental Organization Vivo InternationalKonstanzGermany
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5
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Zeller AC, Conrad D, Schneider A, Behnke A, Pfeiffer A, Blum GF, Wilker S, Elbert T, Kolassa I. A combination of combat experience, early abduction, and severe traumatization fuels appetitive aggression and violence among abductees of rebel war in Northern Uganda. Aggress Behav 2020; 46:465-475. [PMID: 32643160 DOI: 10.1002/ab.21914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Individuals who perpetrate violence may likely perceive violence as appealing and infliction of violence to derive pleasure is termed as appetitive aggression. Individuals who were abducted as children into an armed group often experience a higher number of traumatic event types, that is traumatic load and are usually socialized in a violence-endorsing environment. This study aims to investigate the interaction between age at initial abduction with that of traumatic load, and their influence on appetitive aggression along with perpetration of violent acts by former members of an armed rebel group of both sexes. Semi-structured interviews were conducted among a target group of formerly abducted rebel-war survivors (including participants with and without combat experience) from Northern Uganda. Participants included 596 women and 570 men with N = 1,166 (Mage = 32.58, SDage = 9.76, range: 18-80 years). We conducted robust linear regression models to investigate the influence of age at initial abduction, traumatic load, combat experience, and biological sex on appetitive aggression as well as their perpetrated violent acts. Our study shows, appetitive aggression and the number of perpetrated violent acts were specifically increased in individuals who were abducted young, experienced several traumatic events in their lifetime, and with previous combat experience. For perpetrated violence men showed increased levels whereas for appetitive aggression the association was independent of biological sex. Therefore, early abducted individuals with a higher traumatic load, who have combat experience, need to be given special intervention to prevent any further violence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja C. Zeller
- Clinical Psychology and Neuropsychology, Department of Psychology University of Konstanz Konstanz Germany
- vivo international e.V. Konstanz Germany
| | - Daniela Conrad
- Clinical Psychology and Neuropsychology, Department of Psychology University of Konstanz Konstanz Germany
- Department of Clinical and Biological Psychology, Institute of Psychology and Education Ulm University Ulm Germany
| | - Anna Schneider
- vivo international e.V. Konstanz Germany
- Department of Clinical and Biological Psychology, Institute of Psychology and Education Ulm University Ulm Germany
| | - Alexander Behnke
- Department of Clinical and Biological Psychology, Institute of Psychology and Education Ulm University Ulm Germany
| | | | - Gerrit F. Blum
- Institute of Psychology and Education Ulm University Ulm Germany
| | - Sarah Wilker
- vivo international e.V. Konstanz Germany
- Department of Clinical and Biological Psychology, Institute of Psychology and Education Ulm University Ulm Germany
| | - Thomas Elbert
- Clinical Psychology and Neuropsychology, Department of Psychology University of Konstanz Konstanz Germany
- vivo international e.V. Konstanz Germany
| | - Iris‐Tatjana Kolassa
- vivo international e.V. Konstanz Germany
- Department of Clinical and Biological Psychology, Institute of Psychology and Education Ulm University Ulm Germany
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6
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Abstract
Psychological approaches to the study of armed conflict have focused on analyzing post-traumatic stress outcomes, and on evaluating the intensity of exposure to violent confrontation. Nevertheless, psychometrically valid tools required for measuring these traumatic experiences are scarce To validate the Extreme Experiences scale (EX2) for armed conflict contexts for its use in Colombia, and to provide a framework for validation in conflict contexts around the world This Cross-sectional aims to validate the scale with 187 participants, study of validate with 187 participants, comprising population with high exposure to conflict (former combatants and a set of armed conflict victims) and low conflict-exposed individuals (control group). Structures of two domains and 18 items were confirmed: Direct Extreme Experiences (dEX2) and Indirect Extreme Experiences (iEX2); these dimensions were also validated by expert judgment, producing 14-item version. Good levels of internal consistency were found, with a KR-20 of 0.80 for the 18-item version, and 0.77 for the 14-item. The scale differentiates between population with 'high exposure to conflict' from population with 'low exposure' (dnp > 0.5 and area under the ROC >0.90). The scale scores have significant correlation with some mental health constructs. The EX2 scale has good internal consistency, as well as structural validity with regard to exposed groups. This scale can be potentially validated for its use in countries with armed confrontation history. In future versions, the scale may include additional items in order to improve content validity.
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7
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Appetitive aggression in offending youths: Contributions of callous unemotional traits and violent cognitive patterns. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s12144-020-00759-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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8
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Valencia S, Trujillo N, Trujillo S, Acosta A, Rodríguez M, Ugarriza JE, López JD, García AM, Parra MA. Neurocognitive reorganization of emotional processing following a socio-cognitive intervention in Colombian ex-combatants. Soc Neurosci 2020; 15:398-407. [PMID: 32107978 DOI: 10.1080/17470919.2020.1735511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Ex-combatants often exhibit atypical Emotional Processing (EP) such as reduced emphatic levels and higher aggressive attitudes. Social Cognitive Training (SCT) addressing socio-emotional components powerfully improve social interaction among Colombian ex-combatants. However, with narrow neural evidence, this study offers a new testimony. A sample of 28 ex-combatants from Colombian illegal armed groups took part in this study, split into 15 for SCT and 13 for the conventional program offered by the Governmental Reintegration Route. All of them were assessed before and after the intervention with a protocol that included an EP task synchronized with electroencephalographic recordings. We drew behavioral scores and brain connectivity (Coherency) metrics from task performance. Behavioral scores yielded no significant effects. Increased post-intervention connectivity in the delta band was observed during negative emotional processing only SCT group. Positive emotions exposed distinctive gamma band connectivity that differentiate groups. These results suggest that SCT can trigger covert neurofunctional reorganization in ex-combatants embarked on the reintegration process even when overt behavioral improvements are not yet apparent. Such covert functional changes may be the neural signature of compensatory mechanisms necessary to reshape behaviors adaptively. This novel framework may inspire cutting-edge translational research at the crossing of neuroscience, sociology, and public policy-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Valencia
- Grupo De Investigación En Salud Mental, Facultad Nacional De Salud Pública, Universidad De Antioquia UdeA , Medellín, Colombia.,Corporación Académica De Ciencias Básicas Biomédicas, Universidad De Antioquia UdeA , Medellín, Colombia
| | - N Trujillo
- Grupo De Investigación En Salud Mental, Facultad Nacional De Salud Pública, Universidad De Antioquia UdeA , Medellín, Colombia
| | - S Trujillo
- Doctoral Program in Psychology, Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Granada , Granada, Spain
| | - A Acosta
- Department of Experimental Psychology and Physiology of Behavior, University of Granada , Granada, Spain
| | - M Rodríguez
- SISTEMIC, Facultad De Ingeniería, Universidad De Antioquia UdeA , Medellín, Colombia
| | - J E Ugarriza
- Facultad De Jurisprudencia, Universidad Del Rosario , Bogotá, Colombia
| | - J D López
- SISTEMIC, Facultad De Ingeniería, Universidad De Antioquia UdeA , Medellín, Colombia
| | - A M García
- Laboratory of Experimental Psychology and Neuroscience (LPEN), Institute of Cognitive and Translational Neuroscience (INCYT), INECO Foundation, Favaloro University , Buenos Aires, Argentina.,National Scientific and Technical Research Council CONICET , Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Faculty of Education, National University of Cuyo UNCuyo , Mendoza, Argentina.,Departamento de Lingüística y Literatura, Universidad de Santiago de Chile , Santiago, Chile
| | - M A Parra
- School of Psychological Sciences and Health, University of Strathclyde , Glasgow, UK
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9
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Robjant K, Schmitt S, Chibashimba A, Carleial S, Elbert T, Koebach A. Trauma, Aggression, and Post Conflict Perpetration of Community Violence in Female Former Child Soldiers-A Study in Eastern DR Congo. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:533357. [PMID: 33132929 PMCID: PMC7574907 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.533357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Former combatants are exposed to multiple traumatic stressors during conflict situations and usually participate in perpetration of violence. Ongoing perpetration of violence in post conflict areas, linked to mental health problems and appetitive aggression, destabilises peace keeping efforts. The aim of this study is to investigate lifetime exposure to violence and the relationship between this exposure and mental health and current violent behaviour in a sample of female former child soldiers with a history of perpetration of violence in Eastern DR Congo. METHODS 98 female former child soldiers who had been abducted and forcibly recruited during the M23 insurgency (2012-2014) were assessed for lifetime exposure to trauma including perpetration of violence, clinical outcomes (PTSD and appetitive aggression), and current violent behaviour. RESULTS Female former child soldiers had been exposed to extremely high levels of trauma including perpetration of violence and presented with high levels of mental health problems. Linear regression models showed that current violent behaviour was predicted by both PTSD and appetitive aggression. CONCLUSIONS Trauma exposure predicts ongoing perpetration of violence post conflict via the resulting mental health problems. The findings imply that if PTSD and appetitive aggression symptoms are successfully treated, ongoing violent behaviour in the community post conflict will also decrease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katy Robjant
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany.,vivo international e.V., Konstanz, Germany
| | - Sabine Schmitt
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Amani Chibashimba
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany.,vivo international e.V., Konstanz, Germany
| | - Samuel Carleial
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Thomas Elbert
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany.,vivo international e.V., Konstanz, Germany
| | - Anke Koebach
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany.,vivo international e.V., Konstanz, Germany
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10
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Robjant K, Koebach A, Schmitt S, Chibashimba A, Carleial S, Elbert T. The treatment of posttraumatic stress symptoms and aggression in female former child soldiers using adapted Narrative Exposure therapy – a RCT in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Behav Res Ther 2019; 123:103482. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brat.2019.103482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2019] [Revised: 08/31/2019] [Accepted: 09/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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11
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How 'The Urge to Kill' Feels: Articulations of Emic 'Appetitive Aggression' Experiences Among Former Forcefully Recruited Children and Youth in the Acholi Region of Northern Uganda. Cult Med Psychiatry 2018; 42:419-448. [PMID: 29151235 DOI: 10.1007/s11013-017-9557-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Based on 10 months of fieldwork in the Acholi region of northern Uganda among youth and adults who were forcefully recruited into the Lord's Resistance Army (LRA) during the war, this article provides qualitative details to research on 'appetitive aggression.' Through two case-stories the article unfolds first person articulations of how 'appetitive aggression' is experienced as 'the urge to kill' and how it relates to the emic Acholi spiritual concept of 'cen'; a local Luo expression used to describe places and human beings possessed by evil spirits. The analysis illuminates what the individual and social implications of 'the urge to kill' and 'cen' entail for two Acholi men; first in a militia and then in a civil post-war context. The analysis then relates these findings to soldier experiences across cultures and time periods. While our analysis supports the findings in 'appetitive aggression' studies that appetitive aggression serves as a resilient protective factor against developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), this study documents that once the former forcefully recruited return to civilian life, 'appetitive aggression' and 'the urge to kill' precipitate individual and at times lethal social and moral complications in a fragile post-war community. Thus, the article argues that appetitive aggression and the emic perceptions and experiences of it among the local population are essential to consider in studies, processes and programs targeting demobilization, rehabilitation, reconciliation and re-integration.
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12
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Trujillo SP, Valencia S, Trujillo N, Ugarriza JE, Rodríguez MV, Rendón J, Pineda DA, López JD, Ibañez A, Parra MA. Atypical Modulations of N170 Component during Emotional Processing and Their Links to Social Behaviors in Ex-combatants. Front Hum Neurosci 2017; 11:244. [PMID: 28588462 PMCID: PMC5440593 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2017.00244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2017] [Accepted: 04/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Emotional processing (EP) is crucial for the elaboration and implementation of adaptive social strategies. EP is also necessary for the expression of social cognition and behavior (SCB) patterns. It is well-known that war contexts induce socio-emotional atypical functioning, in particular for those who participate in combats. Thus, ex-combatants represent an ideal non-clinical population to explore EP modulation and to evaluate its relation with SCB. The aim of this study was to explore EP and its relation with SCB dimensions such as empathy, theory of mind and social skills in a sample of 50 subjects, of which 30 were ex-combatants from illegally armed groups in Colombia, and 20 controls without combat experience. We adapted an Emotional Recognition Task for faces and words and synchronized it with electroencephalographic recording. Ex-combatants presented with higher assertion skills and showed more pronounced brain responses to faces than Controls. They did not show the bias toward anger observed in control participants whereby the latter group was more likely to misclassify neutral faces as angry. However, ex-combatants showed an atypical word valence processing. That is, words with different emotions yielded no differences in N170 modulations. SCB variables were successfully predicted by neurocognitive variables. Our results suggest that in ex-combatants the links between EP and SCB functions are reorganized. This may reflect neurocognitive modulations associated to chronic exposure to war experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra P Trujillo
- Doctoral Program in Psychology, Department of Experimental Psychology, Universidad de GranadaGranada, Spain.,GISAME, Facultad Nacional de Salud Pública, Universidad de Antioquia (UdeA),Medellín, Colombia
| | - Stella Valencia
- GISAME, Facultad Nacional de Salud Pública, Universidad de Antioquia (UdeA),Medellín, Colombia
| | - Natalia Trujillo
- GISAME, Facultad Nacional de Salud Pública, Universidad de Antioquia (UdeA),Medellín, Colombia.,Neuroscience Group, Universidad de Antioquia (UdeA),Medellín, Colombia
| | - Juan E Ugarriza
- Facultad de Jurisprudencia, Universidad del RosarioBogotá, Colombia
| | - Mónica V Rodríguez
- SISTEMIC, Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad de Antioquia (UdeA),Medellín, Colombia
| | - Jorge Rendón
- Neuroscience Group, Universidad de Antioquia (UdeA),Medellín, Colombia.,Neuropsychology and Behavior Group, Universidad de Antioquia (UdeA),Medellín, Colombia.,Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Maastricht UniversityMaastricht, Netherlands
| | - David A Pineda
- Neuropsychology and Behavior Group, Universidad de Antioquia (UdeA),Medellín, Colombia
| | - José D López
- SISTEMIC, Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad de Antioquia (UdeA),Medellín, Colombia
| | - Agustín Ibañez
- Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Autónoma del CaribeBarranquilla, Colombia.,Center for Social and Cognitive Neuroscience (CSCN), School of Psychology, Universidad Adolfo IbañezSantiago, Chile.,National Scientific and Technical Research CouncilBuenos Aires, Argentina.,Laboratory of Experimental Psychology and Neuroscience, Institute of Translational and Cognitive Neuroscience, INECO Foundation, Favaloro UniversityBuenos Aires, Argentina.,ACR Centre of Excellence in Cognition and its Disorders, SydneyNSW, Australia
| | - Mario A Parra
- Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Autónoma del CaribeBarranquilla, Colombia.,Psychology, School of Social Sciences, Heriot-Watt UniversityEdinburgh, United Kingdom
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13
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Haer R, Hermenau K, Elbert T, Moran JK, Hecker T. The role of intrinsic and extrinsic rewards in committing violence during combat: A cross-sectional study with former combatants in the DR Congo. Aggress Behav 2017; 43:241-250. [PMID: 27747888 DOI: 10.1002/ab.21684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2015] [Revised: 09/20/2016] [Accepted: 09/26/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
It has been postulated that the violent behavior that characterizes armed conflict is reinforced by the possibility of receiving rewards. The present study examined the potential influence of two types of rewards in an ongoing setting of conflict: extrinsic and intrinsic rewards. Former combatants active in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (N = 198) were interviewed and questioned about the way they were recruited, the offenses they committed during combat, their level of perceived intrinsic rewards (i.e., appetitive perception of violence), and the number of received extrinsic rewards during their time in the armed group (e.g., money, extra food, alcohol, or drugs). A moderated multiple regression analysis showed that the number of received extrinsic rewards and the level of intrinsic rewards were significantly positively related to the number of different types of offenses committed. In contrast to our expectations and previous findings, the recruitment type (forced conscription vs. voluntary enlistment) did not moderate this relation. Our findings suggest that both types of rewards play a role in committing violence during combat. We suggest, therefore, that reintegration programs should not only consider the influence of extrinsic rewards, but also need to address the influence of intrinsic rewards to counter violent behavior among former combatants. Aggr. Behav. 43:241-250, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roos Haer
- Department of Politics and Public Administration; University of Konstanz; Konstanz Germany
- vivo international; Konstanz Germany; www.vivo.org
| | - Katharin Hermenau
- vivo international; Konstanz Germany; www.vivo.org
- Department of Psychology; University of Konstanz; Konstanz Germany
| | - Thomas Elbert
- vivo international; Konstanz Germany; www.vivo.org
- Department of Psychology; University of Konstanz; Konstanz Germany
| | - James K. Moran
- Department of Psychology; University of Konstanz; Konstanz Germany
| | - Tobias Hecker
- vivo international; Konstanz Germany; www.vivo.org
- Department of Psychology; University of Zurich; Zurich Switzerland
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Meyer-Parlapanis D, Weierstall R, Nandi C, Bambonyé M, Elbert T, Crombach A. Appetitive Aggression in Women: Comparing Male and Female War Combatants. Front Psychol 2016; 6:1972. [PMID: 26779084 PMCID: PMC4700207 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2015.01972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2015] [Accepted: 12/09/2015] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Appetitive aggression refers to positive feelings being associated with the perpetration of violent behavior and has been shown to provide resilience against the development of PTSD in combatants returning from the battlefield. Until this point, appetitive aggression has been primarily researched in males. This study investigates appetitive aggression in females. Female and male combatants and civilians from Burundi were assessed for levels of appetitive aggression. In contrast to non-combatants, no sex difference in appetitive aggression could be detected for combatants. Furthermore, each of the female and male combatant groups displayed substantially higher levels of appetitive aggression than each of the male and female civilian control groups. This study demonstrates that in violent contexts, such as armed conflict, in which individuals perpetrate numerous aggressive acts against others, the likelihood for an experience of appetitive aggression increases- regardless of whether the individuals are male or female.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Corina Nandi
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz Konstanz, Germany
| | - Manassé Bambonyé
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Université Lumière Bujumbura, Burundi
| | - Thomas Elbert
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz Konstanz, Germany
| | - Anselm Crombach
- Department of Psychology, University of KonstanzKonstanz, Germany; Department of Clinical Psychology, Université LumièreBujumbura, Burundi
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15
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Köbach A, Nandi C, Crombach A, Bambonyé M, Westner B, Elbert T. Violent Offending Promotes Appetitive Aggression Rather than Posttraumatic Stress-A Replication Study with Burundian Ex-Combatants. Front Psychol 2015; 6:1755. [PMID: 26696913 PMCID: PMC4672083 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2015.01755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2014] [Accepted: 11/02/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Research has identified appetitive aggression, i.e., the perception of committed, violent acts as appealing, exciting and fascinating, as a common phenomenon within populations living in precarious and violent circumstances. Investigating demobilized soldiers in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) demonstrated that violent offending is associated with appetitive aggression and not necessarily with symptoms of posttraumatic stress. In the present study, we sought to replicate these results in an independent and larger sample of demobilized soldiers from Burundi. As with the Congolese ex-combatants, random forest regression revealed that the number of lifetime perpetrated violent acts is the most important predictor of appetitive aggression and the number of lifetime experienced traumatic events is the main predictor for posttraumatic stress. Perpetrated violent acts with salient cues of hunting (pursuing the victim, the sight of blood, etc.) were most predictive for perceiving violent cues appealingly after demobilization. Moreover, the association of violent acts and appetitive aggression as well as traumatic events and posttraumatic stress remains strong even years after demobilization. Patterns of traumatic events and perpetrated acts as predictors for posttraumatic stress and appetitive aggression seem to be robust among different samples of ex-combatants who fought in civil wars. Psychotherapeutic interventions that address these complementary facets of combat-related disorders—namely, posttraumatic stress and appetitive aggression—are indispensable for a successful reintegration of those who fought in armed conflicts and to achieve a successful transition to peace.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anke Köbach
- Clinical and Neuropsychology Group, Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz Konstanz, Germany ; Vivo International Konstanz, Germany
| | - Corina Nandi
- Clinical and Neuropsychology Group, Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz Konstanz, Germany
| | - Anselm Crombach
- Clinical and Neuropsychology Group, Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz Konstanz, Germany ; Vivo International Konstanz, Germany ; Department of Clinical Psychology, Université Lumière de Bujumbura Bujumbura, Burundi
| | - Manassé Bambonyé
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Université Lumière de Bujumbura Bujumbura, Burundi
| | - Britta Westner
- Clinical and Neuropsychology Group, Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz Konstanz, Germany
| | - Thomas Elbert
- Clinical and Neuropsychology Group, Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz Konstanz, Germany ; Vivo International Konstanz, Germany ; Department of Clinical Psychology, Université Lumière de Bujumbura Bujumbura, Burundi
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16
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Augsburger M, Meyer-Parlapanis D, Bambonye M, Elbert T, Crombach A. Appetitive Aggression and Adverse Childhood Experiences Shape Violent Behavior in Females Formerly Associated with Combat. Front Psychol 2015; 6:1756. [PMID: 26635666 PMCID: PMC4646969 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2015.01756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2015] [Accepted: 11/02/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This study investigated the impact of violent experiences during childhood, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and appetitive aggression on everyday violent behavior in Burundian females with varying participation in war. Moreover, group differences in trauma-related and aggression variables were expected. Appetitive aggression describes the perception of violence perpetration as fascinating and appealing and is a common phenomenon in former combatants. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 158 females, either former combatants, supporters of armed forces or civilians during the civil war in Burundi. The PTSD Symptom Scale Interview was used to assess PTSD symptom severity, the Appetitive Aggression Scale to measure appetitive aggression and the Domestic and Community Violence Checklist to assess both childhood maltreatment and recent aggressive behavior. Former combatants had experienced more traumatic events, perpetrated more violence and reported higher levels of appetitive aggression than supporters and civilians. They also suffered more severely from PTSD symptoms than civilians but not than supporters. The groups did not differ regarding childhood maltreatment. Both appetitive aggression and childhood violence predicted ongoing aggressive behavior, whereas the latter outperformed PTSD symptom severity. These findings support current research showing that adverse childhood experiences and a positive attitude toward aggression serve as the basis for aggressive behavior and promote an ongoing cycle of violence in post-conflict regions. Female members of armed groups are in need of demobilization procedures including trauma-related care and interventions addressing appetitive aggression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Thomas Elbert
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz Konstanz, Germany ; Department of Psychology, University Lumière Bujumbura, Burundi
| | - Anselm Crombach
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz Konstanz, Germany ; Department of Psychology, University Lumière Bujumbura, Burundi
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17
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Hecker T, Fetz S, Ainamani H, Elbert T. The Cycle of Violence: Associations Between Exposure to Violence, Trauma-Related Symptoms and Aggression--Findings from Congolese Refugees in Uganda. J Trauma Stress 2015; 28:448-55. [PMID: 26467328 DOI: 10.1002/jts.22046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
War-related trauma exposure has been linked to aggression and enhanced levels of community and family violence, suggesting a cycle of violence. Reactive aggression--an aggressive reaction to a perceived threat--has been associated with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In contrast, appetitive aggression--a hedonic, intrinsically motivated form of aggression--seems to be negatively related to PTSD in offender and military populations. This study examined the associations between exposure to violence, trauma-related symptoms and aggression in a civilian population. In semistructured interviews, 290 Congolese refugees were questioned about trauma exposure, PTSD symptoms, and aggression. War-related trauma exposure correlated positively with exposure to family and community violence in the past month (r = .31, p < .001), and appetitive (r = .18, p = .002) and reactive aggression (r = .29, p < .001). The relationship between war-related trauma exposure and reactive aggressive behavior was mediated by PTSD symptoms and appetitive aggression. In a multiple sequential regression analysis, trauma exposure (β = .43, p < .001) and reactive aggression (β = .36, p < .001) were positively associated with PTSD symptoms, whereas appetitive aggression was negatively associated (β = -.13, p = .007) with PTSD symptoms. Our findings were congruent with the cycle of violence hypothesis and indicate a differential relation between distinct subtypes of aggression and PTSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Hecker
- Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
- vivo international, www.vivo.org
| | - Simon Fetz
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Herbert Ainamani
- Department of Psychology, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Thomas Elbert
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
- Department of Psychology, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
- vivo international, www.vivo.org
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18
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Hecker T, Hermenau K, Crombach A, Elbert T. Treating Traumatized Offenders and Veterans by Means of Narrative Exposure Therapy. Front Psychiatry 2015; 6:80. [PMID: 26157395 PMCID: PMC4475792 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2015.00080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2015] [Accepted: 05/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Violent offenders and soldiers are at high risk of developing appetitive aggression and trauma-related disorders, which reduce successful integration into societies. Narrative exposure therapy (NET) for forensic offender rehabilitation (FORNET) aims at reducing symptoms of traumatic stress (e.g., posttraumatic stress disorder) and controlling readiness for aggressive behavior. It follows the logic of the evidence-based trauma-focused NET with special emphasis on violent acts in past and future behavior. In NET, the therapist guides the client by means of exposure through his traumatic experiences in chronological order linking the negative emotions, such as fear, shame, and disgust, to the past context and integrating the traumatic experiences into the autobiographical memory. During FORNET, we also encourage verbalization of any positive emotions and experiences linked to past violent and aggressive behaviors. This recall of positive emotions (linked to the there and then) is contrasted with feelings that emerge during the narration process (here and now). In this way, the therapist helps the client to anchor the whole range of sensory and bodily experiences, cognitions, and emotions to the contextual cues. Over the process of the therapy, we support the client to begin the role change from a violent offender to a citizen, who is capable of living a non-violent and socially adjusted life. Finally, the client develops visions and wishes for the future to support a successful integration into society. Several studies with veterans and violent youths have proven the feasibility of FORNET, found evidence of a positive outcome (recovered mental health, fewer offenses committed, less drug intake, and improved integration into civil society), and highlighted the importance of addressing the whole range of experiences while treating violent offenders or veterans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Hecker
- Department of Psychology, Division of Psychopathology and Clinical Intervention, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Vivo International (www.vivo.org)
| | - Katharin Hermenau
- Vivo International (www.vivo.org)
- Department of Psychology, Division of Clinical Neuropsychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Anselm Crombach
- Vivo International (www.vivo.org)
- Department of Psychology, Division of Clinical Neuropsychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Thomas Elbert
- Vivo International (www.vivo.org)
- Department of Psychology, Division of Clinical Neuropsychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
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Köbach A, Schaal S, Elbert T. Combat high or traumatic stress: violent offending is associated with appetitive aggression but not with symptoms of traumatic stress. Front Psychol 2015; 5:1518. [PMID: 25709586 PMCID: PMC4285743 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2014.01518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2014] [Accepted: 12/09/2014] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Former members of armed groups in eastern DR Congo had typically witnessed, experienced, and perpetrated extreme forms of violence. Enhanced trauma-related symptoms had been shown in prior research. But also lashing out in self-defense is a familiar response to threat defined as reactive aggression. Another potential response is appetitive aggression, in which the perpetration of excessive violence is perceived as pleasurable (combat high). What roles do these forms of aggressive behavior play in modern warfare and how are they related to posttraumatic stress symptoms? To answer the question, we sought to determine predictors for appetitive aggressive and trauma-related mental illness, and investigated the frequency of psychopathological symptoms for high- and low-intensity conflict demobilization settings. To this end, we interviewed 213 former members of (para)military groups in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo in regard to their combat exposure, posttraumatic stress, appetitive aggression, depression, suicidality, and drug dependence. Random forest regression embedded in a conditional inference framework revealed that perpetrated violent acts are not necessarily stressful. In fact, the experience of violent acts that typically implicated salient cues of hunting (e.g., blood, suffering of the victim, etc.) had the strongest association with an appetite for aggression. Furthermore, the number of lifetime perpetrated violent acts was the most important predictor of appetitive aggression. However, the number of perpetrated violent acts did not significantly affect the posttraumatic stress. Greater intensity of conflict was associated with more severe posttraumatic stress symptoms and depression. Psychotherapeutic interventions that address appetitive aggression in addition to trauma-related mental illness, including drug dependence, therefore seem indispensible for a successful reintegration of those who fought in the current civil wars.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anke Köbach
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz Konstanz, Germany ; Vivo International ( www.vivo.org )
| | - Susanne Schaal
- Vivo International ( www.vivo.org ) ; Department of Psychology, University of Ulm Ulm, Germany
| | - Thomas Elbert
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz Konstanz, Germany ; Vivo International ( www.vivo.org )
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20
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Moran JK, Weierstall R, Elbert T. Differences in brain circuitry for appetitive and reactive aggression as revealed by realistic auditory scripts. Front Behav Neurosci 2014; 8:425. [PMID: 25538590 PMCID: PMC4260506 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2014.00425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2014] [Accepted: 11/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Aggressive behavior is thought to divide into two motivational elements: The first being a self-defensively motivated aggression against threat and a second, hedonically motivated "appetitive" aggression. Appetitive aggression is the less understood of the two, often only researched within abnormal psychology. Our approach is to understand it as a universal and adaptive response, and examine the functional neural activity of ordinary men (N = 50) presented with an imaginative listening task involving a murderer describing a kill. We manipulated motivational context in a between-subjects design to evoke appetitive or reactive aggression, against a neutral control, measuring activity with Magnetoencephalography (MEG). Results show differences in left frontal regions in delta (2-5 Hz) and alpha band (8-12 Hz) for aggressive conditions and right parietal delta activity differentiating appetitive and reactive aggression. These results validate the distinction of reward-driven appetitive aggression from reactive aggression in ordinary populations at the level of functional neural brain circuitry.
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Affiliation(s)
- James K Moran
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz Konstanz, Germany
| | | | - Thomas Elbert
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz Konstanz, Germany
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21
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Prevalencia de síntomas, posibles casos y trastornos mentales en víctimas del conflicto armado interno en situación de desplazamiento en Colombia: una revisión sistemática. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 43:177-85. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rcp.2014.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2013] [Revised: 05/28/2014] [Accepted: 07/01/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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22
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Crombach A, Elbert T. The benefits of aggressive traits: a study with current and former street children in Burundi. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2014; 38:1041-1050. [PMID: 24411982 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2013.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2013] [Revised: 11/15/2013] [Accepted: 12/02/2013] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Aggressive behavior in children and youths is commonly associated with exposure to violence and maltreatment. Consequently, aggressive behavior has often been explained as a form of reactive behavior in response to violence-inflicted mental suffering. However, perpetrating violence can become appealing, fascinating and exciting, i.e., may acquire appetitive, self-rewarding aspects. We postulated that this appetitive form of aggression reduces the vulnerability for developing Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in insecure and violent environments. Furthermore we investigated the extent to which reactive aggression and appetitive aggression account for recent violent behavior in children and youths. We conducted semi-structured interviews in a sample of 112 children and youths (Mage=15.9 years) recruited from the streets, families and a residential center for vulnerable children in Burundi. We investigated the cumulative exposure to traumatic events and to domestic and community violence, assessed the recently committed offenses, the severity of PTSD symptoms, and the potential for reactive and appetitive aggression. Reactive aggression was positively related to PTSD, whilst appetitive aggression was negatively related to PTSD. Children higher in appetitive aggression were also more likely to display violent behavior. These results suggest that an appetitive perception of violence may be an useful adaption to insecure and violent living conditions reducing the vulnerability of children for trauma-related mental disorders. However, positive feelings experienced through violent or cruel behavior are also an important risk factor for ongoing aggressive behavior and therefore need to be considered in prevention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anselm Crombach
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Box D23, 78457 Konstanz, Germany; Department of Psychology, University Lumière of Bujumbura, Burundi; Vivo International e.V., Germany(1)
| | - Thomas Elbert
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Box D23, 78457 Konstanz, Germany; Department of Psychology, University Lumière of Bujumbura, Burundi; Vivo International e.V., Germany(1)
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23
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Hermenau K, Hecker T, Maedl A, Schauer M, Elbert T. Growing up in armed groups: trauma and aggression among child soldiers in DR Congo. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2013; 4:21408. [PMID: 24224078 PMCID: PMC3820919 DOI: 10.3402/ejpt.v4i0.21408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2013] [Revised: 09/26/2013] [Accepted: 10/09/2013] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Child soldiers are often both victims and perpetrators of horrendous acts of violence. Research with former child soldiers has consistently shown that exposure to violence is linked to trauma-related disorders and that living in a violent environment is correlated with enhanced levels of aggression. OBJECTIVE To gain more insight into the experiences and the mental health status of former child soldiers, we conducted a survey with N=200 former child soldiers and adult combatants in the DR Congo. METHODS We conducted semi-structured interviews concerning military experiences, experienced and perpetrated violence, and mental health. RESULTS Former child soldiers reported more experienced and perpetrated violence, a greater severity of trauma-related suffering, as well as higher appetitive aggression than adult ex-combatants. Appetitive aggression was related to more perpetrated violence, higher military ranks, voluntary recruitment and higher rates of reenlistments in former child soldiers. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate that growing up in an armed group is related to higher levels of trauma-related disorders and aggressive behavior. This may explain the challenge of reintegrating former child soldiers. It is thus important to consider mental health problems, particularly trauma-related disorders and aggressive behavior, of former child soldiers for designing adequate reintegration programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharin Hermenau
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany ; vivo international, Allensbach, Germany
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Hecker T, Hermenau K, Maedl A, Schauer M, Elbert T. Aggression inoculates against PTSD symptom severity-insights from armed groups in the eastern DR Congo. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2013; 4:20070. [PMID: 23671766 PMCID: PMC3651955 DOI: 10.3402/ejpt.v4i0.20070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2012] [Revised: 04/03/2013] [Accepted: 04/12/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), combatants are exposed to massive forms of violence and other traumatic stressors. Nevertheless, many combatants do not suffer from trauma-related disorders, although they have experienced numerous traumatizing events. Perceiving aggressive behavior as fascinating and arousing might be a defense against trauma-related disorders in the violent environment of war and conflict. OBJECTIVE Thus, in this study we investigated the relationship between the exposure to traumatic stressors, appetitive aggression, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptom severity. We hypothesized that cumulative traumatic experiences correlated positively and appetitive aggression negatively with PTSD symptom severity. METHOD In total, 105 voluntary male combatants from different armed groups in the eastern DRC took part in this study. In a semistructured interview, respondents were questioned about their exposure to traumatic stressors, the extent of appetitive aggression (Appetitive Aggression Scale) and their PTSD symptom severity (PTSD Symptom Scale - Interview). RESULTS A multiple sequential regression analysis showed that traumatic events were positively related to PTSD symptom severity. For participants with low to medium PTSD symptom severity, appetitive aggression correlated negatively with PTSD symptom severity. CONCLUSIONS The results of this study provide further support for earlier findings that repeated exposure to traumatic stressors cumulatively heightens the risk of PTSD and revealed that appetitive aggression buffers the risk of developing PTSD symptoms under certain circumstances. Thus, the perception of aggressive behavior as fascinating and arousing seem to help combatants to adapt to violent environments but may also be one reason for recurrent failure of reintegration programs for excombatants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Hecker
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany ; vivo international, Allensbach, Germany
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