Diverse Perspectives: Exploring Peer Role Models Across Racial and Ethnic Backgrounds

Peer role models are an important factor in supporting academic achievement, social development, and mental health, particularly in out-of-school-time (OST) programs that emphasize character and leadership. This mixed-methods study explored whether Scouts’ racial/ethnic identity was associated with identifying a peer role model and examined the character assets youth valued in those role models. We purposively sampled 104 Scouts (aged 11–18), 89% male and 70% White, with additional racial diversity across all U.S. regions. Interviews were analyzed using both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Most Scouts identified a peer role model, and there were no significant differences in identification or valued characteristics across racial/ethnic groups. Scouts most frequently valued character assets related to caring, contribution, and connection. These findings point to the value of structured, youth-led, multi-age OST environments, indicating that program policies which embed opportunities for peer role modeling may help promote character development across diverse backgrounds.