Understanding the Youth Development Model

This compilation of research outlines the role of mentoring as a youth development strategy that uses positive youth-adult relationships to provide broad guidance and support rather than aiming for quick fixes or teaching a specific skill. They define youth development using the stages that all children go through to acquire the attitudes, competencies, values and social skills necessary to become successful and resilient adults. The research compiled shows widespread agreement on the key outcomes for youth: competence, confidence, connection, character, and caring/compassion via the provision of services, opportunities and support. Three fact sheets are included to provide a basic overview of youth development theory and practice and describe the ways in which these practices can be more fully incorporated into mentoring programs.

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mentoring_1182_1.pdf