Mentee and mentor perceptions of a mentoring court for high-risk probationers

Abstract

As part of an evaluation of the only known mentoring problem-solving court for adult moderate- and high-risk probationers in the United States, the current study investigated mentors and mentees’ perceptions of the programme. Data sources included surveys of and focus groups with mentees as well as online monthly reports from mentors. Qualitative analysis revealed that both mentors and mentees reported positive mentoring relationships, while mentees were concerned about issues of relatability and enabling. Mentees also perceived the programme to be a sanctuary from their chaotic everyday lives and a very new experience within the justice system.