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Mentoring Program Practices as Predictors of Match Longevity

NCJ Number
252286
Journal
Journal of Community Psychology Volume: 45 Issue: 5 Dated: 2017
Author(s)
Janis B. Kupersmidt; Kathryn N. Stump; Rebecca L. Stelter; Jean E. Rhodes
Date Published
February 2017
Length
0 pages
Annotation
This article reports on a study that assessed Benchmark program practices and Standards in the Elements of Effective Practice for Mentoring (MENTOR, 2009) as predictors of mentoring match longevity; and secondary data analyses were conducted on a national agency information management database from 45 Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies and 29,708 mentoring matches from across the United States.
Abstract
Agency leaders completed a web‐based survey describing their policies, procedures, and practices. Results revealed that the only individual Standard that was predictive of match length was the Training Standard. In addition, the sum total of both Benchmark program practices and Standards were associated with match length and long‐term relationships; however, neither predicted premature match closure. Results are discussed in terms of the importance of implementation of evidence‐based practices, particularly mentor training, for achieving effective mentoring outcomes. (Publisher abstract modified)