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Non-specific versus targeted approaches to youth mentoring: A follow-up meta-analysis.

Christensen, K., Hagler, M., Raposa, M., Stams, G. J., & Rhodes, J. Journal of Youth and Adolescence. (2020-02-04)
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Background

The study delves into the effectiveness of youth mentoring programs, comparing non-specific, relationship-focused approaches to targeted, problem-specific interventions. Historically, mentoring programs have emphasized the importance of the mentor-mentee bond, suggesting that a strong relationship alone can foster positive developmental change. This research evaluates this presumption.

Methods

The research utilized a meta-analytic approach, building on a previous meta-analysis by Raposa et al. (2019). It included evaluations of intergenerational, one-on-one formal youth mentoring programs written in English between 1975 and 2018. The studies were rigorously coded to determine whether the mentoring program was non-specific and relationship-focused or targeted and problem-specific.

Findings

The analysis of 48 mentoring studies, with an average youth age of 12.25 years, indicated that the overall effect size of targeted programs was more than double that of non-specific relational approaches. Significant moderator effects were observed on academic, psychological, and social functioning outcomes.

Implications

The findings suggest that while the mentor-mentee relationship is crucial, targeted interventions that address specific mentee needs can significantly enhance the effectiveness of mentoring programs. This implies that mentoring programs might benefit from incorporating evidence-based, targeted strategies to better support youth, especially those with distinct challenges.