Mediation

Question 1

Why should you avoid mediation?

Answer 1

Hostile mediator bias: both parties tend to report afterward the mediator was unfair

Question 2

When should you mediate?

Answer 2

Parties unable to communicate civilly

Two parties Can’t find a positive bargaining zone

One party has to save face

You have specific expertise

Question 3

Self serving bias

Answer 3

We give ourselves too much benefit of the doubt (eg all Stsnford students think they are more honest than avg, considerate, etc etc)

Question 4

How do you enhance perspective taking

Answer 4

Decrease distance

Unpack contributions (clarify specific contributions)

Get parties explaining why

Have parties outline pros and cons

Question 5

What are the steps to mediate

Answer 5

1) modify physical/social structure (eg nuetral site)
2) modify issue structure (no aggregation bias, separate issues)
3) help them get around barriers ( let them vent, identify small wins and common ground, choose concession options)
4) facilitate communication (acknowledge emotions, reframe the subjective to the objective)