Emotional intelligence is a key factor when it comes to effective dispute resolution. We see this is in every session. This concept refers to the ability to recognize and manage one’s own emotions, as well as the emotions of others. It plays an important role in mediation, as it helps participants communicate clearly and effectively while staying mindful of each other’s feelings throughout the process.
When mediation participants are emotionally intelligent, they come into mediation with a greater understanding of their own thought processes and how their reactions will be perceived by others. They are also able to recognize when another person is feeling a certain emotion and respond appropriately. For example, if one party is feeling frustrated or angry, an emotionally intelligent mediator will be better equipped to defuse the tension through calming language and active listening skills.
Aside from helping mediation participants stay on track with productive conversations, emotional intelligence can also help people view disputes more objectively. If an individual is aware of the psychological effects of their emotions, they will be better equipped to think critically about issues rather than simply reacting with knee-jerk responses. With this in mind, mediation becomes more effective because participants can focus on finding solutions together rather than remaining stuck in a cycle of arguing or finger-pointing.
Moreover, being emotionally intelligent can also help people take responsibility for their actions during mediation sessions. Interacting with someone who has a solid sense of their own thoughts and feelings makes it easier for them to admit fault when necessary or even apologize for mistakes made in moments of anger or frustration; something which would otherwise be difficult and uncomfortable if emotions are running high during mediation proceedings.
In addition to being aware of one’s own emotions and those of others during mediation sessions, having good communication skills can further enhance dispute resolution outcomes. This means being able to express oneself clearly without resorting to aggressive rhetoric; instead using ‘I’ statements to focus on what is being said without attacking anyone personally or engaging in verbal sparring matches which often exist between two parties who are at odds with each other. Furthermore, it pays off when mediation participants pay close attention not just to what is being said but also how it is being said – this could range from body language signals (such as crossed arms) which indicate that one may be feeling uncomfortable with something said during mediation proceedings or facial expressions which indicate that someone may feel insulted by comments made by the other side – so that tensions can be avoided before they escalate further!
In conclusion, emotional intelligence plays an important part in successful dispute resolution; particularly when it comes to mediation proceedings where both sides need to remain open minded about finding solutions which work for everyone involved in the process! By recognizing one’s own emotional state as well as understanding how your words and actions might affect another person’s reaction towards you, mediation participants can greatly increase chances of coming up with satisfactory resolutions which everyone involved can accept!
Here are a couple links to review further:
- LinkedIn - Avidner Laroya - "The Importance of Emotional Intelligence and How It Works in Mediation"
- Mediate.com - Trip Brathel - "Emotional Intelligence In Mediation"
