NCJ Number
101981
Journal
Mediation Quarterly Issue: 12 Dated: (June 1986) Pages: 3-15
Date Published
1986
Length
13 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the roles of the supervisory consultant working with a trainee divorce mediator as part of a problemsolving team of professional peers.
Abstract
The consultation follows the mediation process in a task-focused way that is consistent with the way the mediator practices with the parties. Divorce mediation in this undertaking is defined as a process of intake and orientation, fact gathering, problem definition, option development, option selection, and bargaining. Through these stages, the consultant performs several functions. These include measuring the effectiveness of the mediator in general and that of specific strategies in terms of appropriate documentation of performance; monitoring performance and identifying such performance problems as triangulation, over direction, and premature negotiation; and identifying dynamic issues that interfere with the mediators' effectiveness. The consultant also solves problems created by specific issues, and creates a role model of good practice. Consultation methods may include observation of sessions; review of audiotapes, videotapes, or written reports of sessions; one-to-one discussion; and role playing. Comediation, another form of consultation, may involve joint mediation using consultant observation, participation, or demonstration. Presession and debriefing consultations can be used to set the agenda, suggest strategies and goals, anticipate outcomes, and assess performance. 3 references.