Psycho-Social Implications of Street Hawking among School Age Children in South West Nigeria

Abstract

Street hawking among school-age children remained a pervasive socio-economic challenge in Nigeria, exposing young individuals to psychological, social, and educational setbacks. This study examined the psycho-social and educational implications of street hawking among children in selected cities, highlighting its long-term effects on their well-being and academic performance. A purposive sampling technique was used to select Akure, Ibadan, and Abeokuta, with six major markets chosen across the three state capitals. A total of 300 school-age children (6–17 years) engaged in hawking were sampled using snowball and accidental sampling techniques. Data were collected using a structured Street Hawking Questionnaire and analyzed through descriptive statistics and Pearson Product Moment Correlation. Findings revealed that street hawking negatively impacted children's psychological well-being, leading to anxiety, low self-esteem, and emotional distress. Additionally, it disrupted their education through absenteeism, poor academic performance, and increased dropout rates. Socially, child hawkers experienced isolation, stigmatization, and exposure to exploitation. The study emphasized the urgent need for policy interventions, poverty alleviation programs, and improved access to education to mitigate the negative consequences of street hawking. Addressing these issues required a multi-sectoral approach involving government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and community stakeholders to ensure the protection and development of vulnerable children.