A Typology Of Negative Mentoring Experiences: A Multidimensional Scaling Study

A typology of negative mentoring experiences was generated utilizing multidimensional scaling techniques. Similarity ratings were obtained on 16 negative mentoring experiences identified by previous research. Multidimensional scaling results supported a three-dimensional solution for the data. Based on both subjective and empirical interpretation strategies, it was determined that individuals consider outcome severity (minor versus serious), specificity (targeted versus diffuse), and mentor function (psychosocial versus career-related) when comparing negative mentoring experiences. Connections with theoretically related areas of social science research, as well as implications for theory-building, future research, and applied practice are discussed.