The State of the Art in Mediation
In this chapter, after a brief synthesis of emerging research on mediation, a reflection on the mediator's roles and styles will lay the ground for a better understanding of the personality and personal styles of mediators and how these affect the procedural component of mediation. Second, a deeper reflection on group processes allows us to understand how groups try to align themselves in regards to the mediation trajectory. Whereas the focus of this chapter is on mediation, inter- and intragroup processes are characterized by a range of negotiated processes. A better understanding of these negotiated processes allows for a better assessment of mediation strategies. Thirdly, an experiment in group negotiations forms the basis for a grounded theory approach and a better understanding of how groups in conflict can align their visions and strategies to the mediator's goals, leading to better process outcomes.