Conflict

Philosophies and values of mediating are based on the various assumptions about and the nature of conflict

Conflict used in a broader

sense than the term

dispute.

Conflict refers to

• State of tension

• Disagreement between 2 or more people or groups

Conflict situations can result in the

emergence of a specific dispute

Both a conflict situation and a dispute are seldom static phenomena

Conflict may be viewed as occurring along three

dimensions

• Cognitive

• Emotional

• Behavioural

Causes of conflict can be located in deep structural

factors

• Insecurity

• Deprivation

• Identity

Causes of conflict can also be located at a more overt

level

• Goals/objectives• Information/data• Communication• Relationship/emotional• Values/principles

Conflict situations arise in a system of power

relations and negotiations always involve the

exercise of power in dealing with the situations

Issues of power are fundamental to an understanding of

mediation’s place within social systems