Street Children in Durban: An Exploratory Investigation.

Massive social upheaval, families' failure to provide a supportive milieu, and the schools' failure to instill an appreciation of education has contributed to large numbers of black street children in South Africa. This exploratory study analyzed the problem of street children in the Durban municipal area in South Africa, providing a social profile of children and their families, and exploring the roots of involvement in deviant behavior. Interviews were conducted with 193 street children at shelters in Durban and on the streets. Questionnaires were also completed by 71 service providers. Findings suggest that the social profile of the families of the street children appears to be typical of black families in general. The children's inner motivations and expectations, and their evaluation of costs and rewards were the main factors pushing them into street life. Although service providers expressed sympathy for street children, many regarded them as deviants, delinquents, future criminals, and a public nuisance. Service providers tended to advocate places of safety and schools of industry for their care. Based on the findings, it was concluded that the street child phenomenon necessitates a partnership between governmental and non-governmental organizations to provide for policy and legislation, funding and resources to translate programs into concrete plans of action. (Contains 67 references.) (Author/KB)