Mediation
Mediation
Mediation is a meeting between 2 or more people, facilitated by a trained mediator from the SRCR Team who serves as a neutral third party. The mediator’s role is to guide the participants through the mediation process; they do not choose sides, give advice, make suggestions, or otherwise take any position in the process. The purpose of mediation is to assist you in a conversation with the hopes of reaching a mutually satisfactory agreement regarding a specific issue or conflict.
What does mediation look like?
- Each person has uninterrupted time to share what happened and what they hope to accomplish in the mediation.
- Mediator facilitates the dialogue based on the topics identified as important by the participants.
- Once each topic has been discussed, the parties check in privately with the mediator.
- If an agreement is reached, the mediator drafts a document that is signed by all parties.
Why was mediation offered to me?
Mediation is a great option for when two or more parties need to come to an agreement on a conflict or issue. Mediation has been helpful to roommates, teammates, student organizations, and leadership boards.
How is this different than the meeting I had with my RA?
Residence Life is a great initial resource for conflict experienced by students who live in the residence halls. The staff members on the SRCR Team are formally trained to facilitate mediation by the Center for Conflict Resolution. Mediation offered in the SRCR is a specific process designed to help participants identify and communicate their needs and interests in the hope of reaching a mutually satisfactory agreement, which is more structured than conversations facilitated by Residence Life staff.
What if we can't arrive at an agreement?
If you are unable to reach an agreement, your mediator will work with you to identify a plan for moving forward. This may include participating in conflict coaching.
What if I would rather not participate?
All of our conflict resolution services are completely optional. Each party always has the option not to participate.
Is what I say confidential?
Privacy is a crucial component of the processes in the SRCR. All information shared through mediation or other conflict resolution services will be kept private, with two exceptions: 1) If there is mention of a serious violation of the Community Standards or law, a staff member would be required to act upon this information as appropriate and to ensure the safety of the community. 2) If a staff member becomes aware that someone may be in danger of serious, imminent harm, they would be required to address the situation as appropriate to ensure the safety of the community.
Ok, so how do I sign up?
Select "conflict resolution report or request" and fill out this report form and someone will reach out to you. You can also call 773-508-8890 or stop by the SRCR suite on the third floor of the Damen Student Center to set up an intake meeting.
Mediation is a meeting between 2 or more people, facilitated by a trained mediator from the SRCR Team who serves as a neutral third party. The mediator’s role is to guide the participants through the mediation process; they do not choose sides, give advice, make suggestions, or otherwise take any position in the process. The purpose of mediation is to assist you in a conversation with the hopes of reaching a mutually satisfactory agreement regarding a specific issue or conflict.
What does mediation look like?
- Each person has uninterrupted time to share what happened and what they hope to accomplish in the mediation.
- Mediator facilitates the dialogue based on the topics identified as important by the participants.
- Once each topic has been discussed, the parties check in privately with the mediator.
- If an agreement is reached, the mediator drafts a document that is signed by all parties.