NCJ Number
98961
Journal
Mediation Quarterly Issue: 7 Dated: (March 1985) Pages: 35-45
Date Published
1985
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This article describes and compares four programs designed to mediate disputes involving children and their parents as well as other adults such as teachers, therapists, and social workers.
Abstract
The programs considered are the Children's Hearings Project in Cambridge, Mass.; the Children's Aid Society's PINS Mediation Project in New York, N.Y.; the Exeter Mediation Program in Exeter, N.H.; and the Connecticut Superior Courts Family Division. The general mediation model used by all four programs is the same. A mediation session is scheduled after an intake and orientation process that prepares the family for mediation. The mediation process consists of a public session involving all parties, caucuses in which the mediator meets with each party, and the establishment of agreements between the parties. Most programs follow up after the agreement to help with referrals and monitor the effectiveness of the agreement's implementation. Some programs use a team of two mediators; others use one. The number of mediation sessions varies among the programs. All four programs respect the confidentiality of the process within legally mandated limits. The programs are compared according to philosophy, sponsorship, program models, mediators, training, agreements, and participant satisfaction. Tables present data from the programs, and seven references are listed.