Explorative Mediation at Work, 1st ed. 2016
The Importance of Dialogue for Mediation Practice

Exploring and critiquing various methods of mediation, this innovative book critically develops a new explorative practice in the field. Considering ways in which mediators may influence disputing parties, especially in the workplace where mediators are paid to intervene, Explorative Mediation at Work questions the common claim that mediation is a neutral intervention. The difference between offering minimally intrusive support and acting to secure a containment and even suppression of workplace conflict is heavily dependent upon a mediator?s practices.  At worst, engineering resolution may tarnish mediation?s reputation for impartiality. At best, mediation can win the trust of parties in conflict, facilitate a democratic engagement and be of real benefit to organizations. This book aims to demonstrate the latter in proposing a practice that supports parties to seek out dialogue from which relationships may be rebuilt and practical problems resolved.

Chapter 1 Introduction.- Chapter 2 A spectrum of mediator influence.- Chapter 3 Mediation in the workplace.- Chapter 4 Political awareness and dialogue.- Chapter 5 Instrumental mediation.- Chapter 6 Relational mediation.- Chapter 7 Explorative mediation: An instrumental, ethical and political approach.- Chapter 8 Conclusion.- References.- Index

Roger Seaman is a freelance workplace mediator with practical experience of mediating and facilitating democratic, small group discussions. Receiving his PhD in workplace mediation in 2010, Dr Seaman’s research focuses upon an approach known as ‘Explorative Mediation’ that is built upon a respectful critique of the Transformative and Narrative schools.