PREVENTIVE MEDIATION

Why do people agree to mediate?

Simply because they need help in solving a disagreement or problem. After all, mediation is a form of dispute resolution. It’s about working cooperatively to reach mutually agreeable solutions.

But should mediation be limited to only disputes? I contend we consider a new form of the process I call “Preventive Mediation.”

Mediators are trained to help people establish objectives and to help them with problem solving. Mediators are also trained to maintain a climate conducive to working together by thinking creatively. Lastly, they are trained to help people develop general agreements into specific defined and workable ones.

These skills make cooperative dispute resolution a reality for millions of people dealing with conflicts. But those same skills can help people avoid conflicts in the first place.

Here are some examples:

1.) Assume a successful family business. While things are going well, that may be exactly the time to work with a mediator to consider the “what if’s” of succession before that becomes an issue that can threaten family relations.

2.) A couple in their 40s recognizes that in a few years their parents may face the challenges of aging. While all family members are healthy, that is exactly the time to consider the ”what if’s” of the issues the family may face when the parents experience medical challenges.

In other words, the “what if’s” are the precursors of disputes. Preventive Mediation brings those issues to the table when the parties are not stressed and emotionally involved in a conflict.

Some may question if Preventive Mediation is simply facilitation. A facilitator typically helps parties be more clear in their communication without providing the problem-solving process a mediator does.

Preventive Mediation deals with the “what if’s” before they become destructive conflicts.