The Factors That Cause Children To Become Street Children (case Studies At The Medan City Amplas Terminal)
Introduction
The problem of children, especially street children, is a serious issue that affects the quality of human resources and has the potential to be an indicator of the progress of a country. Child development is a crucial aspect of a country's progress, and it is essential to identify the factors that contribute to the phenomenon of street children. The Medan City Amplas Terminal is one of the areas where street children are prevalent, and this study aims to investigate the factors that cause children to become street children in this area.
Background of the Study
Street children at the Amplas Terminal show a long phenomenon, and this issue has been increasingly highlighted in recent times. The competition for resources and opportunities has led to an increase in the number of children who are forced to live on the streets. This study aims to identify the factors that contribute to this phenomenon, with the hope of making a positive contribution in efforts to handle street children.
Methodology
This study employed a qualitative approach, using in-depth interviews with key informants, including street children, parents, and community leaders. The data collected was analyzed to identify the factors that contribute to the phenomenon of street children at the Amplas Terminal.
Results
The results of the study show that environmental factors are the dominant cause for children in the Amplas Terminal to become street children. The majority of them come from the area around the terminal, and many of them have parents who work in the area. Interest to earn income is one of the strong reasons that encourage them to be involved in activities around the terminal. Ironically, many parents who let their children become street children, with reports from these children that most of the income they get is handed over to their parents. This adds a layer of complexity in handling the problems of street children, because parents should act as protectors and guides for children.
Family or Relative Involvement
Family or relative involvement in the lives of street children is also a significant factor. Research shows that no family member forbids or obstructs the activities of these children, which further strengthens their reasons for continuing to live the life of the street. The existence of a conducive environment around the Amplas Terminal also supports the activities of street children. In an interview with key informants, they stated that while they were in that location, they did not feel discomfort or threats, which made them feel safe for activities.
Environmental Factors
The existence of a conducive environment around the Amplas Terminal also supports the activities of street children. In an interview with key informants, they stated that while they were in that location, they did not feel discomfort or threats, which made them feel safe for activities. This suggests that the environment plays a significant role in the lives of street children, and it is essential to create a safer and more supportive environment for them.
Conclusion
From this analysis, it is clear that the handling of street children in the Amplas Terminal requires a holistic approach. First, it is essential to involve and educate parents about their role in children's development. Second, intervention from government institutions and the community is needed to create a safer and supportive environment for children. Finally, an increase in awareness of the importance of education and better job opportunities among families can also prevent children from falling into street life. With joint efforts, it is expected that the phenomenon of street children can be minimized, so that children can grow and develop well in a positive and loving environment.
Recommendations
Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations are made:
- Parental Education: It is essential to educate parents about their role in children's development and the importance of providing a safe and supportive environment for their children.
- Community Intervention: Community leaders and government institutions should work together to create a safer and more supportive environment for street children.
- Awareness Campaigns: Awareness campaigns should be conducted to educate families about the importance of education and better job opportunities, and how these can prevent children from falling into street life.
- Support Services: Support services, such as counseling and job training, should be provided to street children to help them reintegrate into society.
Limitations of the Study
This study has several limitations, including:
- Sample Size: The sample size of this study was relatively small, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
- Data Collection: The data collected for this study was based on in-depth interviews, which may be subject to bias and limitations.
- Contextual Factors: The study did not consider contextual factors, such as poverty and lack of access to education and job opportunities, which may contribute to the phenomenon of street children.
Future Research Directions
Future research should aim to:
- Investigate the Role of Poverty: Investigate the role of poverty and lack of access to education and job opportunities in contributing to the phenomenon of street children.
- Develop Effective Interventions: Develop effective interventions to support street children and help them reintegrate into society.
- Conduct Comparative Studies: Conduct comparative studies to identify the factors that contribute to the phenomenon of street children in different contexts.
Q: What is the main cause of street children in the Medan City Amplas Terminal?
A: The main cause of street children in the Medan City Amplas Terminal is environmental factors, including the interest to earn income and the existence of a conducive environment around the terminal.
Q: What role do parents play in the lives of street children?
A: Parents play a significant role in the lives of street children, but unfortunately, many of them do not act as protectors and guides for their children. Instead, they allow their children to live on the streets and even receive the income earned by their children.
Q: What is the significance of family or relative involvement in the lives of street children?
A: Family or relative involvement in the lives of street children is a significant factor that contributes to their decision to live on the streets. If family members do not forbid or obstruct their activities, it further strengthens their reasons for continuing to live the life of the street.
Q: What is the role of the environment in the lives of street children?
A: The environment plays a significant role in the lives of street children. A conducive environment around the Amplas Terminal supports the activities of street children, making them feel safe and comfortable.
Q: What are the recommendations for handling street children in the Medan City Amplas Terminal?
A: The recommendations for handling street children in the Medan City Amplas Terminal include:
- Parental Education: Educate parents about their role in children's development and the importance of providing a safe and supportive environment for their children.
- Community Intervention: Community leaders and government institutions should work together to create a safer and more supportive environment for street children.
- Awareness Campaigns: Conduct awareness campaigns to educate families about the importance of education and better job opportunities, and how these can prevent children from falling into street life.
- Support Services: Provide support services, such as counseling and job training, to help street children reintegrate into society.
Q: What are the limitations of this study?
A: The limitations of this study include:
- Sample Size: The sample size of this study was relatively small, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
- Data Collection: The data collected for this study was based on in-depth interviews, which may be subject to bias and limitations.
- Contextual Factors: The study did not consider contextual factors, such as poverty and lack of access to education and job opportunities, which may contribute to the phenomenon of street children.
Q: What are the future research directions for this study?
A: Future research directions for this study include:
- Investigating the Role of Poverty: Investigate the role of poverty and lack of access to education and job opportunities in contributing to the phenomenon of street children.
- Developing Effective Interventions: Develop effective interventions to support street children and help them reintegrate into society.
- Conducting Comparative Studies: Conduct comparative studies to identify the factors that contribute to the phenomenon of street children in different contexts.
Q: What can be done to prevent children from becoming street children?
A: To prevent children from becoming street children, it is essential to:
- Provide Education and Job Opportunities: Provide education and job opportunities to families, which can help prevent children from falling into street life.
- Create a Safe and Supportive Environment: Create a safe and supportive environment for children, which can help prevent them from becoming street children.
- Involve Parents and Communities: Involve parents and communities in the lives of children, which can help prevent them from becoming street children.
Q: What is the significance of this study?
A: This study is significant because it highlights the importance of addressing the root causes of street children, including environmental factors, parental involvement, and family or relative involvement. It also emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to handling street children, including parental education, community intervention, awareness campaigns, and support services.