Analysis of Social Factors Affecting the Phenomenon of Working Children in Mehrestan City

Introduction:

 Sociologists and researchers have an innate curiosity about the intricate tapestry of social challenges that arise as a consequence of rapid societal shifts. The impetus of growth and urbanization fueled by industrialization has ushered in transformative changes. It is essential, however, to recognize that within this paradigm shift, a complex array of challenges has taken root. At the forefront of these issues is the disheartening prevalence of working children, emblematic of the adverse consequences intertwined with societal evolution. Amid bustling urban landscapes where carefree play and laughter should define childhood, an alternate reality prevails. Rather than savoring the innocence of youth and investing in education for a brighter future, a disheartening number of children toil on the peripheries of sprawling cities. Robbed of their childhood, they grapple with poverty's weight and fall victim to injustice, casting a somber shadow over today's world (Afshani et al., 2011). The issue of working children is not an isolated matter; it is intricately woven into the fabric of Iranian society's evolving conditions and structural shifts. Over the decades, a complex interplay of factors has exacerbated this predicament. These include population growth, glaring socioeconomic disparities, entrenched poverty, and specter of unemployment. The allure of urban life coupled with the transition from tradition to modernity trigger migrations from rural areas to bustling cities. The disintegration of family bonds through divorce and the grip of addiction further compound this complex challenge (Mohrami, 2019). Child labor's proliferation is the consequence of intricate sociocultural and economic dynamics. Its ramifications reverberate across the society, hindering education and skill development, while sowing economic instability. Beyond these economic ramifications, child labor begets a host of societal maladies, from addiction and sexual exploitation to drug trade and criminal activities (Maghdas Jafari et al., 2012). In response, this research endeavored to unravel the societal factors fueling the surge of child labor in Mehrestan City. Two fundamental questions guided the research: What sociocultural factors catalyze the emergence of child labor? How should the significance and priority of these factors be assessed?

Materials & Methods  :

Methodologically, the research adopted a qualitative stance, employing an applied approach to data collection. Applying a cross-sectional framework, contingent on data acquisition timing, the entire working children population of Mehrestan City was the scope of this study. The research employed purposeful sampling, engaging in interviews with 20 working children until data saturation was reached. These semi-structured interviews facilitated comprehensive data extraction.

Discussion of Results & Conclusion :

Emerging from the labyrinth of data analysis were 8 prominent themes encapsulating the essence of the phenomenon of working children in Mehrestan City. These themes encompassed the insidious grip of addiction, pall of financial uncertainty, shadow of family violence, dynamics of migration, inadequate parental roles, educational disparities, subtle work subculture embedded within family networks, and vulnerabilities stemming from weak support infrastructures. Notably, the pivotal factors driving child labor included financial contributions to family expenses and parental employment status. A closely related facet was the persistent issue of insufficient family income coupled with family neglect and abuse. Collectively, these factors underpinned child labor predicament.In conclusion, the research underscored the pivotal roles of sociological factors in child labor enigma in Mehrestan City. Addressing these factors head-on could alleviate the plight of these vulnerable children. Comprehensive strategies were essential, focusing on enhancing the economic standing of disadvantaged families and providing essential parenting education. Simultaneously, fostering sustainable employment, supporting local crafts through microeconomic ventures, revitalizing agricultural industries, promoting educational equity, and developing resources for heightened parental awareness were the instrumental steps in dismantling child labor quagmire. Additionally, bolstering support organizations to aid needy families was crucial.In the grand tapestry of societal progress, recognizing and confronting complexities is incumbent upon us. This research served as a clarion call, urging collective efforts to mitigate the harsh realities faced by working children in Mehrestan City. Harnessing insights from this study can steer societies toward nurturing environments that prioritize the well-being, education, and holistic development of their youngest members.