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Mediation for Kids: Kids in Dispute Settlement

NCJ Number
160389
Author(s)
F Schmidt; A Friedman; J Marvel
Date Published
1992
Length
61 pages
Annotation
This booklet is designed to instruct youth in the dynamics of conflict and the principles as well as the techniques of mediation, with a view toward the development of a school peer mediation program.
Abstract
Although a number of models for school mediation programs are described, the preferred model is a whole classroom-based model. Under this model, teachers train their entire class in mediation. When two students cannot solve a conflict themselves, other students conduct the mediation in a private classroom corner. The curriculum consists of four sections. Section I contains two activities that set the stage for the succeeding sessions. Section II contains instructions for seven activities that address the dynamics of conflict, including the identification of conflict and rules for "fighting" fair. Section III describes six activities designed to develop the skills of listening, paraphrasing, and probing, skills important in mediation. Section IV focuses on the mediation process itself. One of the three activities in this section involve mediation role-plays for hypothetical cases of conflict. Appended glossary, mediators' certificate, and mediation tally form