Dialogue and the Administrator-Mediator

Abstract

Conflict resolution is a widespread challenge in organizational life. Many common sense ideas about conflict fail to take into account communication behavior in a psychosocial context. Instead, they focus on “moves” and established techniques as the way to solve problems. This article presents a deeper conceptualization of conflict, mediation, and peacemaking that focuses upon psychosocial and existential issues embedded in both conflict and peacemaking. The central theme is that a host of human developmental variables interfere with “authentic dialogue.” These are the key for constructive and lasting dispute resolution.

Notes

^aThe importance of feelings and emotions in conflict cannot be underestimated. These factors are so intertwined with the substance of disagreements. Because of this reality, no administrator can resolve disputes by concentrating on the content issues of disputes alone.