ABSTRACT
There are many ways to respond to conflict: We can avoid it, escalate it, work on it directly with the other person, or attempt to change ourselves and hope we transform the other. Because of its complex nature, people sometimes find they are unable to manage conflict effectively without assistance. Thus far, we have focused on the main theme of this book: personal conflict management. However, competent conflict managers know that sometimes a conflict goes beyond the point where personal management is effective and the help of others is beneficial. This chapter explores some of the ways that third parties can assist with conflict management, with a special focus on the process of mediation.
