NCJ Number
102094
Journal
Society of Professionals in Dispute Resolution Occasion Paper Issue: 85-1 Dated: (February 1985) Pages: 14-18
Date Published
1985
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article describes the skills, functions, and training of 'superneutrals,' who have the expertise required to intercede in public employee labor relations and community disputes, applying conflict resolution techniques appropriate to the nature of each dispute.
Abstract
Third-party intercession, particularly with private-sector and public-sector labor disputes, typically has had four dimensions: compartmentalized distinct processes according to mandate, sequentially ordered procedures under laws or regulations, a reflection of the talents and preferences of the third-party intercessionist, and pragmatic and flexible administration. The proposed approach to third-party processes uses 'superneutrals,' who have an indepth understanding of all third-party processes as well as the ability to implement them. The 'superneutral' is capable of managing a conflict for which there are no regulations or precedents for dispute resolution. Such capabilities are particularly valuable in community capabilities are particularly valuable in community disputes, which lack the legal framework for dispute settlement characteristic of private industrial and public-sector disputes. The production of 'superneutrals' requires centrally organized, institutionalized, and ongoing training. Formal cross-training and information exchange should occur between those specializing in arbitration, factfinding, and mediation as well as between the public-, private-, and community-sector neutrals. The program should be administered by a neutral organization. 7 footnotes.