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Young people need favorable conditions to go along the steps of adult life. In the past decades, the theme Work, School and Health gained visibility and growing interest of researchers, policy makers, learning centers, companies and schools.
The aim of this study was to describe and evaluate perceptions of young workers (trainees and apprentices) regarding their working and health conditions after joining the labor force.
Methods
The participants were included in a follow-up work program in a non-governmental organization(NGO). Participants were forty students (14-20 years old), attending evening school classes and working during daytime. Data collection was based on: individual and collective interviews using semi-structured questions, and a questionnaire including sociodemographic items. Empirical data analysis was performed using analysis of content.
Results
Better financial conditions were described by the participants as the main factor responsible for premature joining the labor force. Concomitant activities (work and study) were reported as being negative on their health and wellbeing. Students faced several challenges coping with simultaneous activities at work, school and social life. Furthermore, results indicate the vast majority did not receive from the companies, any training to prevent injuries and did not know the Brazilian legislation regarding rights of young workers.
Discussion
These aforementioned factors are associated with difficulties reported by participants, recognizing and preventing work injuries and work-related diseases. It is important to emphasize the issues of health and work and study because there is a very significant number of young Brazilians who enter each year in the job market attracted by financial needs. Interventions should encompass education, health and political actors since those are usually involved with young people joining the labor market.
Acknowledgments: CNPq (473138/2008-5) and FAPESP (grant no.2008/51661-9)