Affiliations: Occupational Therapy Department, Worcester State College, 486 Chandler Street, Worcester, MA 01602, USA
Note: [] The Global Health Issues Column is a forum for information and opinion about global problems which affect human function, human health, and the health of the planet. In this increasingly interdependent and interconnected world, health professionals are finding it necessary to be aware of these issues and to understand their multiple causes and implications, their interrelationships, and their impact on our clients as well as on our local and global communities. This column presents information on global health issues, and an analysis of their relevance to health care professionals. Comments and contributions are always welcome. Donna McIvor Joss, Ed.D., OTR/L is Chairperson, Occupational Therapy Department, at Worcester State College where she has taught a Global Health Issues Seminar for 8 years. She can be reached at 488 Chandler Street, Worcester, MA 01602 USA; e-mail djoss@worc.mass.edu.
Note: [] Corresponding author. 21 South Brett Street, Beacon, NY 12508, USA. Tel.: +1 914 8317039; fax: +1 212 3304806.
Abstract: This paper intends to review and analyse the literature focusing on the topic of child labor. Child labor is a global problem on the rise despite modern Western beliefs. Today, such complex and interrelated issues as poverty, illiteracy, and politics fuel the growth of the number of children being exploited for economic gain. It is often difficult to imagine that the products we purchase are manufactured in such horrible conditions, but as consumers we must take responsibility for the well-being of these children.
Keywords: Child labor, Poverty, Illiteracy, Human rights violation, Developing countries, Health
