Mentoring, social capital and young people

Abstract

Past research concludes that youth mentoring achieves significant but modest change, although mentees’ opinions are often absent. This article examines how mentoring is experienced by those participating. The interpretive, qualitative methodology used gives voice to those involved. Social capital theory is used to explore how mentoring relationships are built and achieve change. The article concludes that the mentoring process and relationship can develop mentees’ protective assets and enable social capital exchange. These increase mentees’ self-awareness, sense of agency and confidence, and therefore the likelihood of achieving desired change. The article concludes by outlining programme and mentor good practice.