After reading Chapter 11 in its entirety, answer the
following question: Why should communication majors make good mediators? Why might lawyers and psychotherapists
find it difficult to effectively play the role of mediator?
A
mediator is a third party of an affair with neutrality. One reason why
communication majors would make a good mediator is because we understand
concepts of how to communicate with people effectively. We have learned things
like how to approach someone in conflicts, how to solve conflicts, how to
listen, and how to have interpersonal relationships. We normally have an open
mind because they are more relationship-centered, trying to restore a
relationship instead of tearing it apart.
It will be hard for lawyers
to play an effective role as a mediator because they might not be able to help
restore communication and normalize the relationship. Lawyers will be biases because
they have the their client’s or one person’s view in their mind. A psychotherapist will not be a good
mediator because this person will try to figure out the problem and will think
of a way to fix the problem. As communication majors, we are to be always natural
and listen to all sides of the story.
I really like your post and agree with a lot of what you said. My response to this week's question was very similar in that I believe understanding the communication process and how to communicate effectively plays a crucial role in solving disputes. If the mediator cannot communicate efficiently or prompt the opposing parties to do the same, then a resolution cannot be generated. Without proper communicative abilities and understanding of the rules that govern efficient communication it would not work out. I also noted that Lawyers have the tendency to ascertain a certain bias depending on the clientele they work for. Good post!
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