Mentoring as a Protective Relationship and Prevention

Martins, J., Moreira, T., Cunha, J., Núñez, J. C., & Rosário, P. (2024). Be SMART: Promoting goal setting with students at-risk of early school leaving through a mentoring program. Children and Youth Services Review, 157, 107423. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.childyouth.2023.107423

Introduction

Martins and colleagues (2023) examined the mechanisms through which youth mentoring fosters positive development. Youth mentoring programs have long been linked to improved academic, social, and emotional outcomes, but less is known about the processes that make these relationships effective. This study sought to identify how mentoring relationships act as developmental assets and protective factors for young people facing diverse challenges.

Methods

The article synthesized findings from longitudinal, experimental, and meta-analytic studies of youth mentoring programs worldwide. The review emphasized program structure (e.g., screening, training, support), relationship qualities, and developmental timing. Special attention was given to large-scale evaluations such as the Big Brothers Big Sisters trials and multi-site program assessments, providing a broad evidence base.

Results

Relationship quality (trust, empathy, reliability) predicted improvements in youth self-esteem, academic persistence, and emotional regulation. Program logistics mattered—structured mentor training, regular supervision, and intentional mentor–mentee matching produced stronger and longer-lasting effects. In poorly supported programs, relationships often ended prematurely, diminishing benefits. Developmental timing influenced outcomes as younger adolescents showed greater academic and behavioral gains, while older youth benefited more from career guidance and identity exploration.

Discussion

Martins and colleagues (2023) argue mentoring should be conceptualized as a developmental relationship intervention. Benefits depend not simply on pairing youth with adults, but on intentional program design that fosters stable, supportive bonds. Limitations include inconsistent implementation across contexts and unequal access to high-quality mentors.

Implications for Mentoring Programs

For practice, this means investing in logistics—mentor training, structured oversight, and thoughtful matching—while tailoring program goals to developmental stage. Such approaches maximize mentoring’s protective impact and reduce risks of mismatch or premature termination.

Read the full paper here.