"Mediation is a structured, interactive process where an impartial third party neutrally assists disputing parties in resolving conflict through the use of specialized communication and negotiation techniques."
Mediation is an alternative dispute resolution process where a neutral third party helps parties in a conflict reach a mutually acceptable resolution. This topic covers the skills needed to be an effective mediator.
"The mediator acts as a neutral third party and facilitates rather than directs the process."
"Mediation is a 'party-centered' process in that it is focused primarily upon the needs, rights, and interests of the parties."
"The mediator uses a wide variety of techniques to guide the process in a constructive direction and to help the parties find their optimal solution."
"Disputants may mediate disputes in a variety of domains, such as commercial, legal, diplomatic, workplace, community, and family matters."
"The process is private and confidential, possibly enforced by law."
"Mediation has a structure, timetable, and dynamics that 'ordinary' negotiation lacks."
"Participation is typically voluntary."
"The goal is to help the parties reach an agreement."
"Mediation is becoming a more peaceful and internationally accepted solution to end the conflict."
"Mediation can be used to resolve disputes of any magnitude."
"The term mediation...has specific connotations, and there are some differences between Anglo-Saxon definitions and other countries, especially countries with a civil, statutory law tradition."
"Mediators use various techniques to open, or improve, dialogue and empathy between disputants."
"Training programs, certifications, and licensing [produce] trained and professional mediators committed to the discipline."
"The mediator refrains from providing prescriptive advice to the parties."
"The mediator...manages the interaction between parties and facilitates open communication."
"The process is structured, interactive, and uses specialized communication and negotiation techniques."
"Mediation can be used in commercial, legal, diplomatic, workplace, community, and family matters."
"All participants in mediation are encouraged to actively participate in the process."
"Mediation is becoming a more peaceful and internationally accepted solution to end the conflict."