Abstract
While research in youth mentoring is extensive in the U.S., little research has explored its effectiveness in New Zealand,
despite its growth in the past 20 years. While arguments have been raised that overseas models may not fit all cultural contexts
within New Zealand, there appears to be limited evidence supporting this contention. Further, little is known about associations
between effectiveness and the cultural appropriateness of programs and research. This systematic review of youth mentoring
programs in New Zealand is based on 26 studies that met inclusion criteria. Of those, 14 had a significant proportion (15%
or more) of indigenous Māori youth and six had a significant proportion of Pasifika (Pacific Islander) youth. While almost
all programs and associated research were culturally appropriate to the overall New Zealand context, they tended to be less
culturally appropriate for programs working with Māori and Pasifika youth. Further, there was a negative association between
cultural appropriateness and program effectiveness.
despite its growth in the past 20 years. While arguments have been raised that overseas models may not fit all cultural contexts
within New Zealand, there appears to be limited evidence supporting this contention. Further, little is known about associations
between effectiveness and the cultural appropriateness of programs and research. This systematic review of youth mentoring
programs in New Zealand is based on 26 studies that met inclusion criteria. Of those, 14 had a significant proportion (15%
or more) of indigenous Māori youth and six had a significant proportion of Pasifika (Pacific Islander) youth. While almost
all programs and associated research were culturally appropriate to the overall New Zealand context, they tended to be less
culturally appropriate for programs working with Māori and Pasifika youth. Further, there was a negative association between
cultural appropriateness and program effectiveness.
- Content Type Journal Article
- Category Original Paper
- Pages 1-15
- DOI 10.1007/s10935-011-0258-4
- Authors
- Susan P. Farruggia, School of Teaching, Learning and Development, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92601, Symonds Street, Auckland, 1150 New Zealand
- Pat Bullen, School of Teaching, Learning and Development, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92601, Symonds Street, Auckland, 1150 New Zealand
- Frank Solomon, Youth Mentoring Network, Auckland, New Zealand
- Efeso Collins, Youth Mentoring Network, Auckland, New Zealand
- Ann Dunphy, Youth Mentoring Network, Auckland, New Zealand
- Journal The Journal of Primary Prevention
- Online ISSN 1573-6547
- Print ISSN 0278-095X