Finding Out If it is True: Comparing Mediation and Negotiation Through Research

Journal of Dispute Resolution, No. 1, p. 131, 2002

12 Pages Posted: 11 Dec 2010

See all articles by Roselle Wissler

Roselle Wissler

Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law, Arizona State University

Craig McEwen

Bowdoin College

Date Written: 2002

Abstract

In this article, the authors first use existing research evidence to contextualize more clearly the place of civil case mediation in the litigation process. When we understand civil mediation as part of adversarial litigation – rather than as distinct from it – we see the importance of comparing mediation and unassisted negotiation. Next, we discuss research and commentary on the barriers to negotiation and on the ways in which mediation might help overcome them. Finally, we reexamine briefly the research about preferences for mediation and the modest body of existing studies that do contrast litigant experiences with mediation and unaided negotiation in the context of litigation. This reexamination hints that “it may in fact be true” – that is, participation in mediation may enhance parties' perception of procedural justice. Before we can be confident in the answer to this question, however, research is needed that carefully compares the experiences of parties in mediation with those in unassisted negotiation.

Keywords: mediation, negotiation, empirical research

Suggested Citation

Wissler, Roselle and McEwen, Craig, Finding Out If it is True: Comparing Mediation and Negotiation Through Research (2002). Journal of Dispute Resolution, No. 1, p. 131, 2002, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1723293

Roselle Wissler (Contact Author)

Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law, Arizona State University ( email )

111 E. Taylor St.
Mail code 9520
Phoenix, AZ 85004-4467
United States

Craig McEwen

Bowdoin College ( email )

Brunswick, ME 04011
United States

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