The Influence of Child Labour on Self-Esteem among Primary School Children-A Case of Kiwira Market Area in Rungwe District, Tanzania

Abstract

The study examined the influence of child labour on self-esteem development among primary school children in the Kiwira market area, in Rungwe District, Tanzania. The specific objectives were to; find out the nature of activities primary school children engaged in and to assess the effects on self-esteem. The study used a qualitative approach and analytical descriptive survey design. The sample comprised 170 respondents of which; 100 primary school pupils who engaged in child labour and 40 non-child labour children, 5 primary school teachers and 25 parents. Quantitative data were collected through questionnaires while qualitative data were collected through interviews and observation. The results revealed that child labour activities that were being done by primary school children were tough, heavier than their age, exploitative and energy-consuming. The problems they experienced while working included tiredness, physical and psychological pain, eating little or no food, and missing school; hence they developed low levels of self-esteem. Children involved in child labour had low self-esteem. It was concluded that child labour influenced self-esteem development negatively among primary school children. Child labour interrupted the normal development of children’s self-esteem, a phenomenon which made them less competent in social and academic skills, and the situation which makes them feel that they are not valuable persons. It was recommended that parents/guardians and Kiwira ward social workers, in co-operation with primary school teachers, should work together to address the problems that force children to engage in child labour activities. The local government leaders of the area should educate parents on the effects of child labour on their children and what they are expected to do to stop it. Teachers should counsel children on the importance of education for children who seem to be involved in child labour in one way or another. This will help children to deliberately stop engaging in working and instead engage fully in school matters for their future benefits, family and society at large.