Building Bigger Connections

Healthy relationships with adults can help build resiliency against negative outcomes among adolescents, and this study aims to gain a deeper understanding of why and how COVID-19 has impacted mentoring relationships for adolescents. In partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters Canada (BBBSC), we are currently conducting individual semi-structured interviews with BBBSC mentors and mentees to gather qualitative information on their perspectives on how the pandemic may have impacted mentoring relationships. The results from this study have direct implications for improving services for youth, such as those offered by BBBSC, to account for the unique challenges of COVID-19. Further, as adolescents and adults continue to struggle with the aftermath of COVID-19, mentoring relationships will continue to be impacted. Results from this study will also inform BBBSC’s efforts to adapt its programs to online formats. An SSHRC Partnership Engage Grant with BBBSC supports this study.