Kids, crime, and coercion: child labour and exploitation in Nova Scotia's illegal economy

Debreceni, A. M. (2007). Kids, crime, and coercion: child labour and exploitation in Nova Scotia's illegal economy. https://scholar.acadiau.ca/islandora/object/theses:2996

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Title

Kids, crime, and coercion: child labour and exploitation in Nova Scotia's illegal economy

Author
Debreceni, Alicia M.
Call Number

LE3 .A278 2007

Date

2007

Supervisor

Thomson, Tony

Degree Grantor

Acadia University

Degree Name

Master of Arts

Degree Level

Masters

Discipline

Sociology

Affiliation

Sociology

Abstract

This thesis is a preliminary study to demonstrate that some children in Nova Scotia are exploited by adults in illegal, underground markets in Nova Scotia. Children and youth are exploited in these underground economies in a manner similar to child labour in the formal sector. This use of children under the age of 19 in illegal trades in Canada has not been documented. This thesis has two main purposes. First, it provides a critical analysis of theories of child labour, the bourgeois child, and exploitation, to explain the child labour situation as it relates to illegal Canadian markets. Literature on the precise subject is scarce and this thesis uses a variety of sources on child labour generally and youth crime from Canada and abroad that helps to develop understanding of this social problem. Second, this thesis provides the results of a preliminary investigation into the problem of child labour in illegal, underground markets in Nova Scotia through an analysis of six interviews with experts in the field of youth crime, including three local police officers, a police expert on organized crime in Winnipeg, one social worker from Halifax, and a former member of the sex trade. Findings revealed that children are particularly vulnerable to exploitation, especially those in marginal situations. Juvenile prostitution, underage stripping, theft, and drug trafficking are the most common forms of illegal child labour in the province. Participants for this study revealed that this is a problem that requires further consideration. This is a topic that has received little attention, and additional research is needed so that an effective initiative may be undertaken to combat this form of exploitation.

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The author retains copyright in this thesis. Any substantial copying or any other actions that exceed fair dealing or other exceptions in the Copyright Act require the permission of the author.

Permanent Link

https://scholar.acadiau.ca/islandora/object/theses:2996

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