Qualitative analysis of the peer-mentoring relationship among individuals with spinal cord injury

Emily M. Veith, Jack E. Sherman, Teresa A. Pellino, Naoko Yura Yasui
2006 Rehabilitation Psychology  
Objectives: To identify salient dimensions and outcomes of the peer-mentoring relationship among individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). To understand from the perspective of the mentee how the mentoring relationship differs from other supportive relationships. Study Design: Qualitative. Participants: Convenience sample of 7 mentees from a hospital-based SCI peer-mentoring project. Method: Telephone interviews with mentees were conducted 1-4 months postdischarge, and results were coanalyzed
more » ... ith grounded theory methodology. Results: Mentees emphasized the impact of the mentor in terms of his or her practical, emotional, and identity-changing influence. Relationship quality was influenced by multiple factors (e.g., age, friendliness). Five components of the relationship (credibility, equitability, mutuality, acceptance, normalization) differentiated mentoring from other supportive relationships. Conclusions: Peer mentors provide a unique combination of supportive elements not replicated by other relationships. Mentoring programs are useful interventions for facilitating adjustment after SCI. Recommendations for implementing a mentoring program are provided on the basis of participant suggestions.
doi:10.1037/0090-5550.51.4.289 fatcat:eqs6grjr3zghhh4tgplsdtthgu