This case study investigates the socio-economic conditions of child laborers in Barisal City, focusing on the critical intersection of education and social relationships. Child labor remains a persistent developmental challenge in Bangladesh, often driven by extreme poverty and lack of familial economic stability. Rabiul Karim Mridul, as a co-author, explores how early entry into the workforce deprives children of formal schooling and alters their psychological and social integration within the community. The study employs a qualitative and quantitative approach to assess the literacy levels among child workers and the nature of their interactions with peers, employers, and family members. Findings reveal that most child laborers in Barisal are engaged in hazardous or informal sectors with minimal pay, leading to a breakdown in traditional social support systems and stunted cognitive growth. The paper emphasizes that without targeted educational interventions and social safety nets, these children remain trapped in a cycle of intergenerational poverty. By highlighting the specific dynamics of Barisal City, the research provides localized evidence for policymakers to design better rehabilitation programs, vocational training, and inclusive educational policies aimed at eradicating the root causes of child exploitation.

Keywords: Child Labor, Socio-economic Status, Education Access, Social Relationships, Barisal City, Development Economics.