Dealing with Disputes and Conflict

Dealing with Disputes and Conflict: A Self-Help Tool-Kit for Resolving Arguments in Everyday Life offers accessible and practical strategies and solutions to guide untrained mediators and readers on effective ways to resolve disputes and conflict, across a wide range of dispute contexts. Drawing together psychological and social scientific theories, the author offers clear guidance for managing conflict in everyday life, ranging from experiences at work, with the community or at home. This book defines mediation practice, its key principles, and how it is structured and implemented, and offers practical strategies based on key theories, including Transactional Analysis. Tony Whatling draws on his extensive experience as a professional mediator, consultant, trainer and author, to create this valuable practical guide. Including a toolbox outlining core skills and strategies applied by trained practitioners, the book covers important elements in conflict resolution, such as apology, reconciliation, the importance of listening and concentration, and what to try when disputants do not respond. Case studies from various contexts are featured, giving readers the tools they need when faced with disputes relating to situations such as divorce and workplace disagreements. Exploring the building blocks of dispute management through an engaging and clear tone, this text is ideal for mediators, dispute resolution specialists, volunteers, community leaders, medical staff and anyone embarking on a career in mediation, as well as individuals hoping to resolve conflict in their own lives.