The role of unofficial intermediaries in interpersonal conflicts in the Chinese culture

Abstract

Previous studies suggest that a major difference between Chinese and North American cultures is the “indirect” versus “direct” mode of communication. Based on interviews conducted in informal settings, this study discovered that in China, unofficial mediation is common in situations involving interpersonal conflicts. The mediator was usually a friend of the two parties in conflict or an elderly person respected by both. He or she intervened on his or her own initiative or in response to a request by a person other than the two in conflict. In addition, impartiality and face maintenance were perceived as two key factors in successful mediation.

Key concepts:

• Chinese Culture
• Interpersonal Conflict
• Intermediary
• Mediation