The influence of child labour on self-esteem among primary school children in Kiwira marketing area in Rungwe district

The study investigated the influence of child labour on self-esteem among primary school children in Kiwira marketing area in Rungwe District. The study aimed to find out the nature of activities primary school children engaged in and their effects on self-esteem; to examine the level of self-esteem of children involved in child labour activities; to examine the difference of self-esteem between boys and girls involved in child labour activities, and to compare self-esteem of child labour children with non-child labour. The study used quantitative approach complemented by some qualitative data. An analytical descriptive survey design was used. The sample comprised of 170 respondents. Quantitative and qualitative methods were used in collecting data. Results revealed that child labour activities done by primary school pupils were tough, exploitative and energy consuming. The problems they experienced during working included injuries, tiredness. body pains and abuses which made children feel stigmatized, neglected, oppressed and worthless. Children involved in child labour activities had low self-esteem. Boys and girls involved in child labour activities were equally affected as both reported low levels of self-esteem. In the comparison groups children involved in child labour reported lower self-esteems than non-child labour children Overall, child labour influenced self -esteem development negatively am ong primary school children. Child labour activities interrupted the normal development of children's self-esteem as they were less competent in social and academic skills. It was recommended that parents/guardians and Kiwira ward social workers, primary school teachers and parents should work together to address the problems of child labour. Kiwira area government leaders should make by-laws to prevent children from working and enforce school attendance