We see it every day, and the research shows it – mentoring works.
From our localized Youth Outcome and Teacher Surveys to third-party studies of the Big Brothers Big Sisters program, research shows that mentored kids improve their self confidence and academic work, while being less likely to engage in risky behaviors.
Increased Educational Investment & Self Confidence
According to our 2022 local youth outcome surveys, among Littles surveyed:
- 97% became their self-confidence
- 93% participated more in school
- 92% showed better problem-solving skills
- 90% were more motivated to learn
- 87% attended school more often
A 2009 nationwide survey conducted by Civic Enterprises International of Bigs and Littles showed that our one-to-one matches made a BIG, positive impact on Littles’ commitment to their education and their self-confidence. Of the Littles surveyed:
- 93% said that having an adult who cares and looks out for them is very important in helping them achieve their goals
- 95% said going to school and getting a good education is very important
- 94% said that graduating from college is very important
The 2013 Big Brothers Big Sisters Youth Outcomes Survey (YOS) report reflected across-the-board gains for youth just one year after being in a one-to-one mentoring relationship, with middle-school aged mentees outperforming their unmatched peers in every area measured. In our community-based program:
- 83% maintained or improved in scholastic competence
- 94% maintained or improved in their attitudes towards risky behaviors
- 83% maintained or improved in social acceptance
Reduced Risky Behaviors
Big Brothers Big Sisters impact on reducing risky behaviors was powerfully evidenced in research conducted by Public Private Ventures in 1995. When comparing Littles matched with a Big to children waiting to be served by Big Brothers Big Sisters, these researchers found:
Littles were 46% less likely to start using drugs
Littles were 27% less likely to start using alcohol
Littles were 33% less likely to hit someone
The Mentoring Effect
The Mentoring Effect—a 2014 report produced by MENTOR, HART Research Associates and Civic Enterprises—confirms that mentoring has a significant impact that results in positive outcomes for the youth involved. These critical one-to-one relationships connect youth to social and economic opportunities and through these individual youths’ success, the “mentoring effect” has the potential to strengthen families, schools, businesses and communities.
Research In Action
Research in Action is an innovative series produced by MENTOR that highlights the importance of connecting mentoring research to practice and policy with the goal of improving the impact of youth mentoring. Find Links to the issues below:
Research in Action Issue 1 Research in Action Issue 6
Research in Action Issue 2 Research in Action Issue 7
Research in Action Issue 3 Research in Action Issue 8
