An Ethnographic Study of Child Labor in Chakwal, Pakistan

Abstract

This ethnographic study explores the root causes of child labor and its persistence in Chakwal, Pakistan. Child labor is a multidimensional and integrated phenomenon. Children belonging to households of poverty are more likely to end up as part of the labor force. Research analyses how society perceives child labor and its effects on children's mental and physical well-being. The study helps gain an in-depth understanding of the circumstances and factors due to which this phenomenon has persisted over time by analyzing the structures and narratives of child labor among various sectors. Lastly, the study marks factors like poverty, low income, unemployment, large family size, and responsibilities on the children’s shoulders as key in shaping children’s future confined as laborers. Finally, the study concludes on the fact, that contrary to the popular perception, child labor is not taboo instead it is socially accepted as it helps alleviate their socioeconomic problems.