The children are told they will be killed if they disobey orders or try to escape. In the Kamajors the children are initiated into 'secret societies'. By following the rules of these 'societies' the boys are told that they will gain magical powers. The smallest boys are placed closest to the enemy. In war, they are said to be fearless.
Children are often less demanding soldiers than adults.
They are cheaper to keep as they eat less and are easier to manipulate. Both sides believe the unpredictability of small children makes them better fighters. Some are sent into battle high on drugs to give them courage . The Burmese military regime also uses children in combat. In combat children are often captured and threatened.