Mentoring as Prevention: Supporting LGBTQ+ Youth at Risk of Justice Involvement

Tankersley, A. P., & George, B. A. (2024). Programmatic mentoring for LGBTQ+ youth as early prevention for juvenile detention. Families in Society: The Journal of Contemporary Social Services, 106(1), 256–261. https://doi.org/10.1177/10443894241230574

Introduction

Although juvenile arrests have declined nationwide, LGBTQ+ youth remain disproportionately represented in detention, comprising 12–15% of the system (over twice that of the general population). Most are also youth of color. Systemic stressors such as family rejection, heightened surveillance, school discipline, and housing instability fuel this overrepresentation, while detention exposes these youth to higher risks of abuse, mental health decline, and suicide.

Methods

Tankersley and George (2024) analyzed findings from large-scale studies, national surveys, and prior meta-analyses. Their policy brief synthesized evidence on how mentoring can serve as prevention and identified gaps in inclusivity within existing programs.

Results

Findings show LGBTQ+ youth are punished more severely than peers despite comparable behavior, with transgender youth especially vulnerable to maltreatment and housing instability. Once detained, LGBTQ+ youth face significantly higher rates of assault and longer stays. Research consistently shows mentoring reduces delinquency and improves well-being, yet nearly 90% of justice-involved LGBTQ+ youth lack a formal mentor. Programs often lack LGBTQ+ visibility and training, limiting effectiveness.

Discussion

The authors argue that mentoring represents a vital but underutilized intervention for preventing juvenile justice involvement among LGBTQ+ youth. The evidence underscores the protective role of supportive adult relationships in promoting resilience and reducing harmful outcomes. Yet structural barriers such as nondisclosure concerns, insufficient training for mentors, and lack of LGBTQ+ representation undermine current program effectiveness.

Implications for Mentoring Programs

Mentoring programs should recruit affirming mentors, integrate LGBTQ+ specific training, and ensure confidentiality. Embedding advocacy and skill-building into mentoring can reduce detention risk and foster resilience in LGBTQ+ youth.

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