Boosting the life chances of non-white boys

A new report from MDRC looks at what is known about the economic and social disadvantage of non-white young men and the evidence behind initiatives that may help to tackle this problem.

The paper reviews the results from a number of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and highlights promising interventions. Interventions are divided into two broad categories: (a) Proactive Approaches: preventive interventions aimed at young men who are still connected to positive systems (like schools or community colleges) that seek to enhance their success in moving through those systems and on to productive careers, and (b) Reconnection Approaches: interventions targeting those who have disconnected from positive systems. The report also lists ongoing research with results expected soon.

The authors note that well-targeted and well-implemented programs can make a difference, but to make a lasting difference, successful interventions must be taken to scale - that is, replicated and expanded successfully in new places and settings.

As well as identifying proven and promising programs, the authors outline four additional (evidence-based) approaches that could have wider implications for supporting young people from underperforming groups. These are:

• Encouraging young people to apply for the best higher education establishment they are capable of attending, not "undermatching";
• Specialized support within higher education for students from underperforming groups;
• Embedding Cognitive Behavioral Therapy within employment schemes for those within the justice system; and
• New approaches to summer jobs and internships to help give work experience to help build work-readiness, a CV, and gain references.

Johns Hopkins University 

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