WHAT HAPPENS DURING THE MEDIATION PROCESS?
The mediator introduces the process and then invites each party to define the conflict or problem as they see it. As the disputants express their feelings about the situation, the mediator develops a clearer understanding of the conflict, and will ask questions designed to clarify each person’s perspective and define what is desired to move beyond the problem. In this way, important information comes to light, which may not have been understood by the other party. Sometimes the mediators may ask for a private meeting or “caucus” with one disputant at a time in order to get a clear idea of their goals and needs. The mediators may also ask for a “mediator caucus” without the parties present.
