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Mediation Process
There are four main steps in the process of
mediation:
introduction, storytelling, problem solving, and agreement.
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INTRODUCTION
In this stage, personal introductions are made, the mediator(s) explain what will happen
during the mediation, and some basic rules are established.
STORYTELLING
This is where each party has the chance to tell his or her story. All parties are given
uninterrupted time to talk about what they see as the problems, how they feel about what is
going on, what their needs and concerns are, and what they would like to see happen.
Following each persons story the mediator(s) will briefly summarize what has been said and
check with all parties for comments or more information.
PROBLEM SOLVING
The mediator(s) help the parties focus on the issues in this stage, dealing with them one
at a time. Summarizing, clarifying, and looking at common ground are used throughout this
part of the process. The mediator(s) help find areas to which both parties can agree, or
are willing to accept.
AGREEMENT
The forth and final step is reached when both parties feel that they have found a solution
that will work. The agreement is repeated by the mediator(s) point by point. It is then
written down and signed by the disputants and the mediator(s). Both parties receive a copy
of the agreement and it is their responsibility to live by its terms. |
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