Research findings from several formal evaluations suggest that mentoring is successful in producing positive effects toward reducing juvenile delinquency; however, not all mentoring programs are successful. Researchers evaluating the Big Brothers Big Sisters program found that certain aspects are essential in implementing successful mentoring programs. These include:

• A high level of contact between mentor and mentee.
• A relationship that defines the mentor as a friend rather than an authoritative figure.

The researchers also found several other factors that serve as prerequisites for successful mentoring programs: 1) volunteer screening to eliminate unfavorable mentors, 2) communication and limit-setting training for mentors, 3) procedures that take into account youth and volunteer preferences, and 4) intensive supervision and support of each match.

From the Making a Difference: An Impact Study of Big Brothers Big Sisters, by Joseph P. Tierney and Jean Baldwin Grossman, with Nancy L. Resch, Philadelphia: Public/Private Ventures (1995, reissued 2000).

For more information on mentoring, see the article "January 2008 Declared National Mentoring Month by President Bush" in this issue.