* Includes practical and evidence-based tools for resolving disputes and conflict, that can be applied to a range of contexts, and used by lay people, and people working in other roles, for example, managers; human resource staff; faith groups; Local authority employers and managers; social work/care; schools; counsellors; therapists; NHS staff; politicians * Does not provide a short-cut to qualifying as a professional mediator, but applies professional mediation principles to everyday scenarios, and serves as a 'taster' for anyone considering the training process and career in mediation in the future * Shows how well-timed strategic interventions bring an important sense of intentionality and a purposeful structure to chaos, which in turn empowers participants to move from what feels like a crisis towards constructive communication, and on to a creative future-focussed option development

* Includes practical and evidence-based tools for resolving disputes and conflict, that can be applied to a range of contexts, and used by lay people, and people working in other roles, for example, managers; human resource staff; faith groups; Local authority employers and managers; social work/care; schools; counsellors; therapists; NHS staff; politicians * Does not provide a short-cut to qualifying as a professional mediator, but applies professional mediation principles to everyday scenarios, and serves as a 'taster' for anyone considering the training process and career in mediation in the future * Shows how well-timed strategic interventions bring an important sense of intentionality and a purposeful structure to chaos, which in turn empowers participants to move from what feels like a crisis towards constructive communication, and on to a creative future-focussed option development

Mediation is a process that can be used to resolve conflict in many different dispute contexts. This book focuses on the essential skills and strategies needed by any mediator to be successful in their work. Tony Whatling draws on his extensive experience in the field of mediation to explain the range of skills and strategies that are commonly used, as well as why you would use different skills and when they are best employed. The author shows how, by adopting these techniques, a mediator can manage challenging conflicts. It features the use of questioning skills and how they can be used effectively, as well as how to deal with high emotion and negative responses. This book is essential for anyone who wants to improve their mediation skills, whether as a trainee, novice or experienced professional.

Mediation and Dispute Resolution addresses contemporary challenges and new developments in mediation. It aims to provide you with the key tools needed as an ADR practitioner to develop your own style and practice. The book examines the impact of diversity and cultural difference in mediation, gender difference and its implications, and the process of managing high conflict. It also explores new areas of practice such as apology and reconciliation and conjoint mediation and therapy. With advice on how to manage the move into mediation from a previous professional career, the conflicts between practitioners' personal lives and their work are also discussed. Throughout, the book focusses on practical strategies and skills, using case examples in each chapter to highlight the application of theory. An invaluable resource for both experienced and novice mediators to build, consolidate and improve their practice, this book is a perfect complement to Whatling's introductory guide Mediation Skills and Strategies.