Perceptions of mentor roles in cross-gender mentoring relationships

Abstract

Survey data from 181 protégés in three organizations were used to compare perceptions of mentor roles in cross- and same-gender mentoring relationships. When controlling for differences in prior experience with mentors, organizational level, and other demographic variables, perceived mentor roles were not influenced by either mentor or protégé gender. Significant gender interactions were found, however, for role modeling and social roles. Cross-gender protégés were less likely than same-gender protégés to report engaging in after-work, social activities with their mentors. In addition, compared to other gender combinations, female protégées with female mentors were more likely to agree with the idea that their mentor served a role modeling function. Implications and areas for future research are discussed.