Abstract

This research tried to determine whether there is a correlation between self-concept and street children. It further investigated whether a good self-concept could assist these children and modify their behavior. It is an undisputed fact that many street children are marginalized, ostracized, and discriminated against and has very low self-esteem. Most of them who live in metropolitan cities are young boys who have limited numeracy and literacy skills. While they live on the streets and are considered a menace to society, there are innumerable reasons why they are homeless. The various challenges that they face exacerbate the behavioral issues of homelessness and compound ways of trying to assist them. Survival on the street includes harsh living conditions confronting exploitation and combating illegal activities and the use of harmful substances. While some of the reasons are poverty, violence, and abuse, this research investigates whether there is a relationship between self-concept and street children. It is also necessary to evaluate their characteristics and relationship to self-concept and resilience. Exploring self-concept among street children may shed light on their phenomenon and facilitate researchers, policymakers, and clinicians in formulating adequate intervention strategies to assist them.

Key words: Street children, self-concept, self-esteem, self-actualization, education, inclusion, discrimination, stigmatization.