Minors at Work: The Impact of Education and Labor Policy Changes on I-O Psychology

Public education systems and the incidence of child labor have historically been intertwined with both ultimately impacting labor market outcomes and the experience of work. This paper analyzes a suite of interrelated policies in the United States (some enacted, some proposed) that will have the ultimate effect of increasing the presence of minors in the workforce. We explore the impacts of this ultimate result for both I-O research and practice, focusing on (1) increased underemployment and (2) increased workplace accidents, injuries and hazards in the workplace as clear points for necessary research and practice. Further, we highlight the need for I-O psychologists to become more adept at conducting research and practice with minors.