Abstract
Purpose: The present study aimed to identify the perceptions of working children residing in Kermanshah regarding their sources of hope for life. Method: This qualitative study employed a phenomenological approach and was conducted in 2024. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 working children, who were selected using criterion-based purposeful sampling until theoretical saturation was reached. The data were analyzed using Colaizzi's seven-step phenomenological analysis method. Findings: The results of the interview analysis revealed that working children's sources of hope are categorized into two main groups: "external" and "internal." Their external sources included "external support as a reassuring factor" and "family as a motivating factor." Their internal sources, on the other hand, encompassed "self-perception as the sole effective agent for improving conditions," "clear perception of goals and their feasibility," and "universalizing human suffering as a shield against despair." These were identified as sub-themes within the two main categories. Conclusion: It can be stated that external sources of hope act as the starting point for the cycle of hope in working children's lives, while internal sources of hope serve as the sustaining point for this cycle. It is suggested that the findings of this research be utilized for educational and counseling interventions aimed at enhancing hope for life in working children, and that group therapy be effectively employed to sustain their hope for life.
Keywords: Child labor, Sources of hope for life, Phenomenology, Hope, Factors affecting hope