Social Support for Marginalized Children

Abstract

This chapter documents the impacts of various social support policies and programs designed to mitigate the adverse effects of social exclusion on marginalized children and their families. It selects more noteworthy examples around the globe to illustrate effective strategies that these support programs employ. In turn, positive child outcomes, including the decline of antisocial behavior, improved self-esteem and enhanced mental and psychological health are identified. This chapter classified such programs into three levels: national-level, community-level, and individual-level of social support. From the literature gathered, it seems that any attempt in providing effective social support for children must take into account several important factors. Firstly, effective strategies should be formulated in response to the actual needs of children. This requires a thorough understanding of the socioeconomic circumstances in which these children are faced with. Secondly, differences in cultural values should not be overlooked, but instead should inform workers to strategically “frame” their programs so that they resonate with the children’s own background. Thirdly, it appears that the effectiveness of social support programs for children can be enhanced when programs involve their families as well. Child outcomes were found to have improved when mothers are empowered through education, thereby enabling them to be better role models and provide their children with a healthier home environment.