Some of them dislike their freedom or are forced to do what they do not like. Others want to go to school, but need support. Still others want to return home but cannot because of fear, shame or pride. Finally there are the ones who want to make a lot of money and need help in doing so. Among street children, some are aware of the dead-end street they are stepping into, but they cannot or do not want to get out.
Many children are frightened, alone, and suffering.
All of them are at a high risk of being abused, including some who have received abuse because of their own behavior. Arresting them is always easier than helping them. Street children represent one of the most marginalised and vulnerable groups in society. They throng the streets and railway platforms of almost all Third World cities, their situation being strikingly similar across countries and continents. Many have left home at an early age, rebelling against an unjust social system and other factors, seeking a life of relative freedom and independence.