Characteristics of Natural Mentoring Relationships from the Perspectives of Homeless Youth

http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jcap.12038/abstract

Michelle T. Dang, PhD, RN, APHN-BC, and Elizabeth Miller MD, PhD

Search terms: Homeless youth, natural mentor, social support

Summary: Homeless youth experience high risks for poor mental health outcomes. This is the first published qualitative study on natural mentoring relationships as reported by homeless youth. A key finding was the sense of loss expressed by participants regarding parental relationships and how their natural mentors served as surrogate parents.