Ethnic church mentoring: buffer against outside prejudice and inside pressure for success

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study investigates the influence of church mentoring on the psychosocial development of adolescents from immigrant and ethnic minority backgrounds. Framed within ecological systems and sociocultural theories, it examines mentoring processes in fostering positive youth development. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with fifteen adolescents, mentors, and parents from a Protestant congregation, primarily comprising immigrants from South Koreaand Hispanic families. Qualitative content analysis identified thematic categories, revealing that multicultural church mentors acted as bridges between first-generation immigrant parents and their U.S.-born offspring, shielding against external prejudice and buffering academic pressures from immigrant parents. They provided guidance on practical issues and served as role models, validating adolescents’ identity and belonging. Findings suggestthe need for mentor training programs and parenting workshops addressing generational differences. Leveraging community resources and relational capital is crucial for promoting positive youth development among immigrant and ethnic minority communities.