NCJ Number
107524
Journal
Mediation Quarterly Issue: 16 Dated: (Summer 1987) Pages: 45-52
Date Published
1987
Length
8 pages
Annotation
Mediators should understand the importance of the emotional content of the mediation process and the role of emotional expression in conciliation.
Abstract
They must also correctly interpret and respond to the emotional expressions of the parties in a dispute. The choice of a response should rest on the goal of aiding conciliation, understanding, and cooperation. To interpret people's emotional expressions, the mediator should verify the parties' statements, observe body language, use active listening techniques, and ask for more information if the meaning is not clear. The choice of a response to emotional expression should begin with an analysis of eight areas: (1) the mediator's emotional response, (2) the mediator's valuation of dealing with emotions, (3) the parties' valuation of dealing with emotions, (4) the goals of the mediation, (5) the reasons for the emotional expression, (6) the parties' feelings of safety with each other, (7) the parties' feelings of trust with the mediator, and (8) the parties' ability for self-limiting behavior. The mediator should then choose among the following types of responses: (1) no acknowledgement, (2) control, (3) using the motion as information, (4) limited and managed expression, (5) encouragement of expression, and (6) encouragement for moving to a new level of the relationship. Mediators make choices of responses based on many factors, including whether they prefer a substantive style or an affect style. Figures and 2 references.