For more information contact:
Executive Director of Instruction
(704) 658-2530
Peer Pressure
Child Abuse & Family Violence
One of the greatest forces on adolescents is the power of influence from their peers. This outside influence about personal attitudes and outward behaviors can be either positive or negative and should be recognized by the mentor. Mentors cannot force their beliefs upon the mentee, but urge them to make their own choices.
Physical or mental abuse within the family or in any environment, will have both an immediate effect on the mentee and also create long-lasting, negative attitudes and behaviors. A mentor will need to seek the assistance of the school site coordinator if observations indicate that this type of abuse may be occurring.
Substance Abuse
School Safety & Violence
The curiosity to experiment with alcohol, tobacco and drugs is a constant threat to adolescents in today’s world. Each mentee will need to make his or her own choice about participation. The mentor is expected to set an excellent example by avoiding the use of alcohol and tobacco in the presence of the mentee. Mentors should encourage discussions about the issues of abuse and be very observant to mentee behaviors. If evidence exists that the mentee may have a problem with substance abuse, the mentor should seek the assistance of the school site coordinator.
Many young people are exposed to bullies or other violent behaviors in the school setting which may result in attendance problems or lower academic achievement levels. An observant mentor should discuss this with the mentee and inform the school site coordinator about the situation being careful not to involve the mentee in the process.
Sexuality & Teenage Parenting
Many young people may turn to sexual relationships for a variety of reasons. This is a sensitive issue, and great care must be given. The mentor is expected to seek the assistance of the site coordinator.
Depression & Suicide
When young people are overwhelmed with issues and situations they cannot resolve, serious depression may develop. When mentors are sensitive and see any indications of extreme depression or suicide, it must be referred to the school site coordinator
Sexuality & Teenage Parenting
Many young people may turn to sexual relationships for a variety of reasons. This is a sensitive issue, and great care must be given. The mentor is expected to seek the assistance of the site coordinator.
Nutrition & Health Care
Many young people feel they are immortal and tend to ignore good health practices. Mentors can provide excellent discussions and model healthy lifestyles.
Faith & Religion
This issue is usually within the domain of the family, and mentors should be sensitive to family values and practices.
