Introduction: The aim of this research was to compare resilience, feelings of inferiority, coping styles, and motivation for achievement between working children and normal children.
Method: This study is applied in nature and employs a causal-comparative research design. The research population consisted of all working children and normal children in Tehran. Using a convenience sampling method, 100 normal children and 100 working children were selected. Questionnaires addressing resilience, inferiority, coping styles, and achievement motivation were distributed among both groups, and the necessary data for analysis were collected.
Results: The results of the multivariate analysis of variance indicated that there are differences in resilience, feelings of inferiority, and coping styles between working children and normal children. The Bonferroni post-hoc test showed that feelings of inferiority and emotion-focused coping styles were significantly higher in working children than in normal children (p≤0.01), while resilience and problem-focused coping styles were higher in the group of normal children compared to the working children (p≤0.01). However, no significant difference was found in motivation for achievement between working children and normal children.
Conclusion: Based on the findings of the research, it is recommended to design educational and supportive programs for working children that focus on enhancing resilience and problem-solving coping skills. Additionally, creating an environment to promote self-confidence and reduce feelings of inferiority in these children could help improve their mental and social well-being.