Response to LW
I concur that there are many theories upon which professionals may base their strategies in conflict resolution. Fundamentally, it is good for the concerned parties to recognize the presence of differences that may need arbitration. Arbitration is among the proven ways of solving conflict especially if the parties come with a strategy with the help of the mediator. As you have noted, the mediator does not need to suggest ways of working out the differences but facilitate the reconciliation process. Besides that, it is essential that the counselors separate the people from the problems because mixing the two hinders conflict resolution. Further, it is paramount to focus on the interests other than positions. It is the interest the parties have that define the problem other than the positions. On top of that, the parties need to come up with the options leading to mutual gains in an objective manner (Bodine and Craford, 1996).
Reference
Bodine R. and Crawford D. (1996). Conflict Resolution Education. A Guide to Implementing Programs inSchools, Youth-Serving Organizations, and Community and Juvenile Justice Settings. Retrieved on January 23, 2016 from https://www.ncjrs.gov/pdffiles/conflic.pdf
Response to CM
I concur with you on Barsky (2014, p. 2) proposition that conflict arises from miscommunication. In this case, one party tends to misunderstand the issues in question or reacts in a negative manner. Although this may be the case, the interests that people have may lead to conflict because the interests motivate people to act in certain ways. At the same time, cultural aspects in school may lead to conflicts as learners from diverse backgrounds converge. The teachers’ role in conflict resolutions is enormous because the conflict arises on many occasion. Without precise methods of solving conflicts within the shortest time possible, many hours may go to waste as parties disagree on many occasions necessitating many hours of arbitration. It takes a lot of experience for one to be an effective mediator.
Reference
Barsky, A. (2014). Conflict resolution for the helping professions (2nd ed.). New York: Oxford University Press.
