Causes and characteristics of the street child phenomenon: a global perspective.

The street child phenomenon is an alarming and escalating worldwide problem. Street children are maltreated, imprisoned and, in some countries, killed. Street children, as the offspring of complex contemporary urban environments, represent one of our most serious global challenges. This article investigates the causes of this phenomenon, as well as the characteristics of street children throughout the world. In addition, the specific circumstances of street children in Nepal, Indonesia, India, Latin America, and the Philippines are discussed.