The role of social mentoring programs in rehabilitation of juvenile delinquents. An exploratory study

摘要

This communication disseminates the results of a study evaluating a participatory social mentoring program - "Big Brother / Big Sister" (BBBS). The program is aimed at juvenile delinquents in the Vaslui county, aged 12 to 14, who are receiving services outside their homes and specialized supervision in the family. Each child included in the program is accompanied by an adult volunteer, also taking part in various social activities. The evaluation focuses on identifying impact the presence of an adult mentor has on the children's behaviour. Changes in the relationships of children with school, family and peer group are marked. The relationships between volunteers and the families of the children in the programme are described, along with the way volunteers can be a long-term resource for child and family. The study also emphasizes the obstacles perceived by the volunteers in achieving specific goals related to the social integration of juvenile delinquents.