STUDENT: I also have some materials about specific rules in mediation. Will that help?
TUTOR: Very. It is very important to state specific rules about the clients will be allowed to behave during mediation sessions. That is a very essential step to create a positive environment. For example, the clients must treat each other with respect. They may not shout at the other person or interrupt them when they are speaking. After the rules have been established,each client will take a turn speaking directly to the mediator. They will state their point of view concerning the problem. If they are having difficulty, the mediator will facilitate the process by asking questions like "what's been going on between the two of you?" or "how has this problem affected you?" Another thing the mediator will do is to rephrase statements that sound very aggressive and accusatory. For example,if Robert is mad at Vicky,he might say something like this,"the problem is Vicky's always late. She has no respect for my time.She always keeps me waiting." To avoid having Vicky get angry when she hears this,the mediator might say something like this,"So you feel really frustrated and impatient when you arrive promptly and then have to wait a long time for the other person." When both have finished sharing their sides of the story with the mediator,the mediator will list and clarify the problems. In the case of Robert and Vicky,the mediator could say,"There seems to be problem finding a way to organize time that is comfortable for both of you." Sarah,have you got the point?
STUDENT: Yes,Professor Haltman.