From Physiological to Self-Actualization: Exploring the Lived Experiences of Out-of-School Youth Miners in Pantukan

Child labor is a critical global concern. I explored the lived experiences of out-of-school youth miners. A qualitative phenomenological approach was employed. The data collected through In-Depth Interviews (IDIs) and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). I selected thirteen out-of-school youth miners purposively, and I analyzed the data using thematic analysis. The results showed that out-of-school youth working in mining experienced financial instability, unstable employment and societal discrimination. I recommend researches utilizing the themes in the study as variables and emerging subthemes as indicators. Also, qualitative research may explore emerging themes to challenge the Hierarchy Needs Theory.