“If It Weren’t for Them, I’d Probably Be Lost”: The Diversity and Function of Natural Mentors Among Young Black Men Who Have Sex With Men

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine one interpersonal relationship—natural mentoring relationships—that may promote healthy development among young Black men who have sex with men (YBMSM), a population at disproportionate risk of multiple psychosocial health issues. We analyzed data from interviews with 168 YBMSM. We used content analysis to identify who participants cited as mentors, their personal characteristics, and the functions they played in youths’ lives. Participants frequently cited women and family members as mentors. Participants preferred as mentors people with whom they shared key attributes and who they considered successful and resilient. Mentors played roles in participant’s identity construction, cognitive development, and emotional development. Findings suggest that mentors have significant influence in the development of YBMSM. Incorporating natural mentors into health promotion interventions may be one means of enhancing the cultural relevance of interventions for this population.