Mentee Perceptions of Informal Mentoring Relationships, Well-Being, and Belonging Occurring During High School and Post-Graduation

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Friday 3:45 pm
  In Roundtable Session: Mentoring Pathways from K-12 to Graduate Studies

Abstract

Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory posits that an individual’s microsphere relationships significantly affect their development. This mixed-methods case study examined mentee perceptions of their mentoring relationships, sense of belonging, and general well-being from high school students to alumni in their 80s, occurring in their microspheres. Quantitative data were collected from student and alumni mentees using a combined survey (MYAS, SBS, 14-SGWB). Mentees generally had positive perceptions of their mentoring relationships and more neutral feelings about belonging and well-being. Mentees with positive perceptions generally showed higher levels of belonging and well-being. Qualitative data from structured interviews provided insight into the complexity of the relationships. This case study could be applied in other organizational contexts to examine mentee perceptions of informal mentoring.

Authors

• Amanda Ruth Duran Sunderman, American International School of Vilnius

• Margaret E. Constantino, College of William & Mary

• James H. Stronge, College of William & Mary

• Leslie W. Grant, College of William & Mary