How do ADR (Alternative Dispute Resolution) and conflict resolution fit with each other? What’s the difference?
ADR doesn’t define a field, it describes a skill-set that is variously described as being the “property” of conflict resolution or law. Which can lay claim is an entirely semantic argument—there is a lot of overlap, and both fields make use of ADR techniques. What it defines, simply, is the set of all problem-solving skills except for litigation. Mediation, arbitration and negotiation are probably the most recognizable. What a study of conflict resolution as a field will give you (as opposed to simply getting a certification in a specific ADR method) is the ability to place those skills into a greater theoretical and social framework such that they can be used most appropriately and most effectively, that the process and results will be as sustainable as possible, and that as much as possible, an intervener “does no harm.” This may or may not be useful or necessary depending on what you want to do with it—that’s entirely up to you.
