Social origins and implications of child labor

Issue title: Assessment & Planning in Vocational Rehabilitation

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Budd, Pureza P.^; | McIvor Joss, Donna

Affiliations: Worcester State College, Occupational Therapy Department, 486 Chandler St., Worcester, MA 01602, USA

Note: [] Corresponding author. Tel.: + 1 508 9298119; fax: + 1 508 7938184.

Abstract: Child labor continues to present a serious health threat to millions of children worldwide. Not all work is detrimental to children, and under carefully controlled conditions can benefit them in terms of physical and intellectual development as well as make positive contributions to their financial status. Unfortunately, most situations where children are used as a labor force are not designed with the health of the laborers as a primary concern. This article will review the current status of child labor, present theories regarding the social, cultural and economic bases of the practice, discuss its health implications and finally, explore possible solutions to this complex problem.

Keywords: Children's rights, Human rights, Child labor, Occupational therapy

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-1998-10309

Journal: Work, vol. 10, no. 3, pp. 279-291, 1998