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Mediation

Overview

Mediation represents a practical, peaceful and effective alternative, even when the situation seems impossible. Mediation is a cooperative, problem-solving process in which an impartial third party helps people in conflict resolve their differences. Mediators help people express their concerns and expectations in order to reach mutual agreements. Mediation services are Free, Confidential, Safe, and Convenient.

Is Mediation for Me?

SCDR provides mediation services for PSU students who are in conflict. Our mediators are chosen from a pool of second year graduate students from the Conflict Resolution Masters Program. As trained volunteers, our co-mediators facilitate a problem-solving process that allows the parties themselves to define the issues and work toward a mutually agreeable solution. The process typically takes 1-2 hours but will very depending on the case. Mediation is a free, confidential, and safe process.

Types of Cases

SCDR is designed to handle interpersonal disputes between two or more students. Examples include conflict between classmates, roommates, hallmates, boyfriends/girlfriends, domestic partners (both current and ex), and others. The content of the disputes can range from noise levels, to study habits, phone and utility bills, borrowed or broken items, relationship problems, miscommunications, name-calling and minor forms of harassment.

Advantages of using mediation:

• Mediation settles disputes privately and confidentially. No student file or record results from using the process.
• Mediation is fast and convenient. Most mediations are resolved quickly which circumvents the possibility for escalation.
• Mediation is flexible and creative. Because mediation solutions are tailor made for each situation, they are more likely to be lived up to and last.
• Mediation focuses on problem-solving, rather than placing blame. The process avoids the game of proving who’s right and who’s wrong.
• Mediation is educational. The participants learn communication skills and methods to avoid future conflict.
• There is little risk. Agreements are voluntary. In the case of an impasse, all appropriate legal and procedural options, such as litigation, are still available.
• Using an impartial third parties helps other campus intermediaries, such as Residence Assistants, maintain their credibility and impartiality in the eyes of the students involved.

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Updated on 11/11/07