Abstract of the article: Social Construction of Child Labor in the Context of Iran’s Virtual Space



This study examines the social construction of “child laborers” within Iran’s virtual environment and analyzes the growing intersection between children’s expanding presence in digital networks and the social representations that emerge around them. With the rapid rise of children’s participation in content production and online economic activities, the research adopts a qualitative approach and employs digital ethnography to explore the lived experiences of child laborers, their parents, as well as media practitioners and child-rights advocates. Data were analyzed using Strauss and Corbin’s three-stage coding procedure—open, axial, and selective coding—through which key themes related to communicative networks, social pressures, latent expectations, and the fears and aspirations of children were identified.



The findings reveal that the identities of virtual child laborers are shaped through complex interactions among families, peers, support institutions, and digital media, whereby the boundaries between play, entertainment, and labor in their digital lifeworld are continuously shifting and being redefined. The study underscores that the “virtual child laborer” is not a natural or self-evident category, but rather the outcome of social, cultural, and symbolic processes. Moreover, the ways in which this phenomenon is represented in the media and public discourse play a decisive role in shaping children’s identities and lived experiences. The results offer valuable insights for policymakers, support organizations, and researchers seeking to better understand the challenges and opportunities faced by child laborers in digital environments and to design more effective protective strategies.