The Impact of Mentoring on Stress in Higher Education

Abstract

The aim of this research is to understand the association between stress and involvement in a mentoring relationship within a higher education context. Three studies were carried out, within the same large UK University targeting both mentees and mentors involvement in one particular mentoring scheme, for their views and perceptions about mentoring and stress. The keys findings within this case study are that mentoring does allow both mentors and mentees to feel supported, particularly in times of pressure and stress. Mentoring helps to raise self-awareness, confidence levels and helps further develop professional relationships for both parties. Through engaging in ongoing reflection together, mentors and mentees feel that mentoring has had a positive impact on their work-related stress and has provided them with coping strategies. Ultimately, the suggestion is that involvement in mentoring provides strategies for coping with situations, the opportunity to reflect and leads to feeling valued.