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Work and behavioural problems in children and adolescents.
Luís Antônio Benvegnú1, Anaclaudia Gastal Fassa, Luiz Augusto Facchini
1University of Ijui-UNIJUI, RS, Brazil. labenvegnu@brturbo.com.br
International Journal of Epidemiology
|September 8, 2005
Summary
Child labor in Brazil is linked to higher rates of behavioral problems (BP). Children working in domestic services and adolescents starting work early face increased risks, highlighting the need for stricter child labor laws.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Child Development
- Occupational Health
Background:
- Child labor is a significant issue in developing countries, impacting health and well-being.
- Previous research indicates a correlation between child labor and adverse health outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of behavioral problems (BP) among child and adolescent workers in Pelotas, Brazil.
- To identify risk factors associated with BP in this population.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study of 3139 children and adolescents from impoverished areas in Pelotas, Brazil.
- Utilized the Child Behavior Checklist to assess BP.
- Employed multivariable Poisson regression for statistical analysis and confounder control.
Main Results:
- The prevalence of BP was 21.4% among child workers and 9.5% among adolescent workers.
- Child workers, particularly those in domestic services, had a 2.7 times greater risk of BP compared to adolescent workers.
- Early initiation of work and domestic service employment were associated with increased BP.
Conclusions:
- Findings underscore the importance of adhering to minimum age for employment regulations (ILO Convention 138 and Brazilian law).
- The study contributes to identifying hazardous child labor occupations.
- Interventions are needed to protect child and adolescent workers from detrimental health effects.