Citation

Tucker S, Meloy M, Napolitano L, Storrod ML, Curtis K. Youth Justice 2019; 19(3): 262-277.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2019, National Association for Youth Justice, Publisher SAGE Publishing)

DOI

10.1177/1473225419886931

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Using rich narratives provided by youth, this research examines the holistic role of mentors in the lives of young people coming of age in an impoverished and dangerous context (n = 44). Mentees experienced household adversities (e.g. parental separation, substance abuse, familial incarceration) and community violence (e.g. neighborhood shootings, gangs, and assaults). Mentors provided emotional support, educational support, and protection from harm. In addition, youths experienced mentor versatility. Mentors were perceived as effective in aiding the youths' resilience and at helping them navigate multiple levels of stressors and criminogenic conditions.

Language: en

Keywords

adverse childhood experiences; community violence exposure; mentors; post-secondary attainment; resilience; youth