Street Children Programs in Latin America

Abstract

Addresses the nature and significance of the problem of children living on the streets in Latin American cities, based on a combination of key informant interviews, document analysis, and direct observation. The author discusses 3 developmental categories that form a continuum running from high-risk status to living on the street. The problems of street children, including physical violence and drug abuse, are illustrated through the cases of 2 young boys (aged 13 and 15 yrs). Programs for working with street children are based on correctional, rehabilitative, outreach, and preventive approaches. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved).