California Court-Connected Mediation: Appreciating the Influence of Power and Processes

Abstract

In this article, the author discusses the complex relational dynamics involved with child custody recommending counseling processes in California court-connected mediation sessions. The mediation process is viewed through a systemic lens, which allows for the appreciation of reflexive and recursive elements of power inherently present with all participants. A brief exploration is provided of how this reflexive use of power by participants influences the model of mediation used. Finally, suggestions for process improvements are made along with suggestions for areas of future research.

KEYWORDS:

• divorce mediation
• family court
• child custody
• power
• forensic psychology
• mediation
• family systems
• family lifecycle

Notes

Color versions of one or more of the figures in the article can be found online at www.tandfonline.com/wjcc.