Explain to the group that mediation is a technique which young people can use to help their friends and peers to resolve disputes and conflicts. There are a few simple rules that have to be learnt and followed if mediation is going to work. Distribute copies of “Steps for mediation” activity sheet and ask the Pioneers to read it.
To ensure they understand these steps, ask them to suggest issues to consider when planning to intervene as a mediator. Look for suggestions such as: Am I the right person? Do I know one party better than the other? Can I assist without taking sides? Will both parties let me assist? Is this the right time to intervene? Are the parties relatively calm? Do we have enough time? Is this the right place?
Ask the Pioneers how they would feel if they offered to mediate and were rejected. What would they do? Ask them why privacy is important. What would be the effect of doing the intervention in a public place? Ask what they think are the reasons for these rules. What would be the result of not having these rules? What should they do if the disputants fail to observe the rules?
Describe the following situation, and briefly discuss what might have happened and how the disputants might be feeling: Pat and Lou are good friends. Pat broke up with his / her girl / boyfriend and told Lou the story including all the events that led to the breakup. Later Pat found out the story had got around and blamed Lou for the gossip, telling Lou they would never be friends again.
Divide the Pioneers into groups of four. Two will play the disputants, one the mediator, and the fourth an observer. Have the disputants role-play the conflict above and the mediator offer help using the “Steps for mediation” activity sheet. After the first role-play, ask the observer to help the process by asking the group questions such as: What went well? What could have gone differently? The Pioneers can then change roles so each has a chance to play either a disputant or a mediator.
Discussion Questions
- Why is there conflict?
- What are some positive ways of dealing with conflict?
- How did you feel when the mediator offered assistance?
- Did it feel helpful? Or like an intrusion?
- How did you feel when you offered mediation?
- Can you imagine yourself offering to mediate a dispute in your family or among friends?
Finally, go around the circle and ask the Pioneers to come up with one word to describing how they’re feeling