1.
Mediation requires different skills to negotiation.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
Mediation and negotiation are both conflict resolution processes, but they require different skills. While negotiation involves parties advocating for their own interests and reaching a compromise, mediation involves a neutral third party facilitating communication and guiding the parties towards a mutually agreeable solution. Mediators need skills such as active listening, empathy, and the ability to remain neutral, whereas negotiators typically focus on persuasion, assertiveness, and problem-solving. Therefore, the statement that mediation requires different skills than negotiation is true.
2.
Mediation is an involuntary process for settling disputes or resolving conflict.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
Mediation is not an involuntary process, but rather a voluntary one. It involves a neutral third party who assists the conflicting parties in reaching a mutually agreeable solution. The parties involved in mediation have the choice to participate and can also withdraw from the process at any time. Therefore, the statement that mediation is an involuntary process is incorrect.
3.
Here are some of the conditions that would need intervention in a conflict situation: (Select four)
Correct Answer(s)
B. Deteriorating lines of communication
C. Inaccessibility of officials
D. Greater media attention
E. Designation of scapegoats
Explanation
In a conflict situation, several conditions may require intervention. Deteriorating lines of communication can hinder effective dialogue and understanding between parties, making it necessary to address this issue. Inaccessibility of officials can impede the resolution process as key decision-makers may not be available or accessible. Greater media attention can intensify the conflict and escalate tensions, necessitating intervention to manage the narrative and public perception. The designation of scapegoats can further fuel animosity and hinder reconciliation efforts, making it crucial to address this condition.
4.
Conflict intervention is the conscious and systematic entering into a conflict situation by an outside party or parties whose goal is to influence the conflict in a direction the intervenor believes desirable.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Conflict intervention refers to the deliberate and organized involvement of an external party or parties in a conflict situation. The purpose of this intervention is to exert influence on the conflict and steer it towards a desired outcome as perceived by the intervenor. Therefore, the statement that conflict intervention involves the conscious and systematic entering into a conflict situation by an outside party or parties with the goal of influencing the conflict in a desirable direction is accurate.
5.
If you show undue bias the secondary problem will be intensified and distrust will occur.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
If you show undue bias, it can lead to the intensification of a secondary problem and the occurrence of distrust. Therefore, the statement is true.
6.
If the initial conflict level is very high it is unlikely that the first open session will provide sufficient material for you to work on a written agreement.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
If the initial conflict level is very high, it means that there is a significant amount of disagreement or tension between the parties involved. In such a situation, it is unlikely that the first open session will provide enough material or progress for the parties to reach a written agreement. The high conflict level suggests that there are deep-rooted issues that need to be addressed and resolved, which may require multiple sessions or further discussions before a written agreement can be reached. Therefore, the statement "If the initial conflict level is very high it is unlikely that the first open session will provide sufficient material for you to work on a written agreement" is true.
7.
The third open session aims to reach consensus.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement suggests that the third open session aims to reach consensus, but the correct answer is False. This means that the third open session does not aim to reach consensus.
8.
A few brief and practical suggestions about conflict management during negotiation includes: (Select four)
Correct Answer(s)
A. Do not be afraid of emotions; understand their positive value.
B. Remind the parties of the guidelines firmly whenever necessary.
D. If necessary, be firm and direct; ask them if they wish to continue
E. Adjourn the meeting and talk again with each party privately
Explanation
The correct answer choices for this question are: do not be afraid of emotions; understand their positive value., remind the parties of the guidelines firmly whenever necessary., if necessary, be firm and direct; ask them if they wish to continue, adjourn the meeting and talk again with each party privately. These suggestions are practical strategies for managing conflicts during negotiations. By not being afraid of emotions and understanding their positive value, negotiators can address and resolve underlying issues. Reminding parties of guidelines helps maintain focus and adherence to agreed-upon principles. If necessary, being firm and direct allows negotiators to assert boundaries and ensure productive discussions. Finally, adjourning the meeting and talking privately with each party allows for individualized attention and resolution of concerns.
9.
The mediator should always try to create a warm and trusting environment, project an interest in the parties’ problems, and project impartiality.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The mediator should always create a warm and trusting environment to facilitate effective communication and resolution of conflicts. By showing interest in the parties' problems, the mediator can establish rapport and encourage openness. Additionally, projecting impartiality is crucial to gaining the trust of both parties and ensuring a fair and unbiased mediation process. Therefore, it is essential for the mediator to possess these qualities to successfully mediate disputes.