Street as a place for survival, emotions, and suffering; a qualitative exploration of street-connected children in Iran

ABSTRACT

One of the most important steps to improve the quality of life of street-connected children is to gain experiences and assess their needs, with the children themselves being the best source for this information. Therefore, this research aims to identify the experiences and needs of street children using their own insights. The research methodology employed in this study was qualitative, utilizing thematic analysis and semi-in-depth interviews. Maximum variation purposive sampling was employed to capture a range of experiences among street-connected children. Following data collection and analysis, four main themes emerged: ‘The street as an entry into a new world’, ‘The street as a place for experience and love’, ‘The street as a place for survival’, and ‘The street as a place for pain and suffering’. This study uncovers the complex realities of street-connected children, revealing the factors driving them onto the streets and challenging misconceptions. Despite facing profound challenges, these children demonstrate resilience and aspirations for a better future. The study underscores the importance of supportive environments, education, healthcare, and inclusive policymaking to address the systemic factors perpetuating their vulnerability.

KEYWORDS:

• Street children
• qualitative research
• experiences
• Needs assessment

Acknowledgments

We would like to express our gratitude to all those who assisted us in the various stages of writing this thesis.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Availability of data and materials

All the audio files and transcripts of the interviews are currently in possession of the authors and can be provided upon request by the magazine. However, to protect the participants’ information and ensure preservation, the original files have not been made available to the general public.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the Faculty of Behavioral Sciences and Mental Health.