Abstract

Street children: who are they? Why are they homeless? How do they actually live on the streets? What quality of life do they enjoy? What are the characteristics of these children? These questions appear to be simple, but the answers are so very complex. Very often the public lacks proper information about these children and they instinctively judge and cast aspersion on them. This non-empirical paper presents a clear understanding about some of the characteristics of street children. With the use of existing literature, it tries to provide a definition and quantify the number of street children. It explains the difference between children “on” and “of” the streets and highlights some of the notions of street culture. It is the firm view that if the public is more cognizant of the reasons these children live on the streets, they may tend to be sympathetic and understanding to their needs. This paper does not evoke sensationalism but tries as far as possible to create an awareness of the lifestyle of street children.

Key words: Street children, street culture, street life.