BUILDING BRIDGES IN THE COMMUNITY THROUGH MENTORING PROGRAMS

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Yıldız N. G.

THE JOURNAL OF NEUROBEHAVIORAL SCIENCES, vol.2, no.1, pp.1-2, 2015 (Peer-Reviewed Journal)

  • Publication Type: Article / Letter
  • Volume: 2 Issue: 1
  • Publication Date: 2015
  • Journal Name: THE JOURNAL OF NEUROBEHAVIORAL SCIENCES
  • Page Numbers: pp.1-2
  • Istanbul Medipol University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Mentoring is a form of structured trusting relationship, which aims to match disadvantaged at-risk youth with caring individuals who offer guidance, direction, support, motivation, encouragement and reassurance. The goal in mentoring programs is to develop the competence and character of the mentee (National Research Agenda, 2004). While traditionally parents fill this role, some children lack such a relationship. It is predicted that 20 % of youth lack a supportive relationship with a caring adult in their lives (Lawner & Beltz, 2013). When kind, concerned individuals serve as role models, it is more likely that youth will become healthy, successful adults who are integrated into society. Therefore, they are able to form perceptions about society through their observation and social interactions which will influence how they perceive their potential role in society.