Black role models – Which messages work?

This report summarises findings from an experimental research study that explored the effect of different types of role model messages in order to identify those with the most positive potential impact on Black boys and Black young men, and to identify any potentially negative effects.

Overall, about 1,200 people took part in this project, including school pupils from a range of ethnic backgrounds and Black young men. This report summarises the key findings for Black boys and Black young men, including some comparisons between Black boys, White boys and Black girls. Full technical details are presented in a separate report.

The project aimed to address three key questions. The broad conclusions to the report are:

1. Does hearing about role models have any impact on Black boys and young men?
Yes, the role models did have some impact on Black boys confirming the basic premise of the REACH programme that role models can be a positive influence.

2. If so, which qualities and messages communicated by role models most effectively reach and inspire them to raise their aspirations and potential to achieve more, as well as challenge negative stereotypes?
The project has identified particular types of role models and messages likely to be more appealing and impressive than others. There were also differences in impact between the Black boys and the Black young men.

3. Are there any unexpected or unintended negative consequences of these particular messages from role models?
Potentially, yes. Findings were positive on the whole, but for some participants there were a few potentially negative consequences of hearing about role models, at least in the context of this experiment.

View the report here:
http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/communities/pdf/1281168.pdf

View the technical report here:
http://www.communities.gov.uk/publications/communities/reachmessages