Representações sociais e mitos do trabalho infantil

diálogos e possibilidades

Abstract

This article proposes a reflection on the possible connection between studies on the myths of child labor, Vilani (2006) and Custódio (2009), and the Theory of Social Representations, Moscovici (1961). The objective is to establish a dialogue between these theories and analyze whether social representations can contribute to elucidating the genesis of child labor myths. As a hypothesis, there is a possibility of dialogue between the myths of child labor and the Theory of Social Representations. Child labor myths are socially shared ideas, based on common-sense values associated with labor, that seek to justify the exploitation of child and adolescent labor, mistakenly presenting it as an opportunity to overcome poverty, denial of rights, negligence, and social vulnerability. Thus, Moscovici (1961) explains that the Theory of Social Representations is socially constructed and collectively shared, aiming to make the unknown familiar, influencing behaviors and social attitudes toward a given phenomenon. To achieve this objective, a bibliographic research was conducted, exploring articles, books, theses, and other works related to the topic. Finally, it is concluded that there is room for further studies and dialogue between these theories, enabling a broader understanding of the formulation and dissemination of child labor myths.