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Colley 2000
Citation Text:
Colley, H. (2000). Mind The Gap: Policy Goals And Young People's Resistance In A Mentoring Programme.Editorial Comment:
Focus
This paper draws on research evidence from a study of mentoring relationships within a pre-vocational training scheme for 16-19 year olds identified as "disaffected", based on principles underpinning current policies on social exclusion.
Key findings
In contrast with generally accepted theoretical models of mentoring, this evidence demonstrated more complex processes at work. It revealed significant gaps between the goals and assumptions of the scheme, and the desires and needs of the mentees. Many mentees and mentors felt unduly constrained by the tight focus on planning for employment. Unintended consequences emerged. Some mentees developed resistance strategies to avoid scheme requirements, whilst others were dismissed from the scheme. Some mentors accepted the young persons' agenda, whilst others tried to impose the official view. Either way, subversion resulted. Consequently, some mentors became highly critical of the young people they were trying to help, reinforcing negative stereotypes of them as feckless and inadequate.
A combination of these factors risked making things worse for some of the very people the scheme was supposed to help. This suggests that, for policy to be successful in this area, the goals need to be more closely in tune with the needs and aspirations of the young people themselves. Unless it does so, a climate of blame is likely to arise - possibly directed at young people, those who work as mentors, or even the practice of mentoring itself.