The impact of loss on divorce mediation

Abstract

In the course of 25 years of mediating divorce disputes it has become clear to me that once the hostilities between parents in dispute are dissipated and understanding is re-established, a resolution is usually relatively easily achieved. I have also learnt that agreements endure for longer when hostilities have ceased, and research shows that children suffer less damage. In this paper I examine the factors that cause these hostilities and begin to look at what resolves them and restores mutual regard. A later paper will examine more fully the strategies by which hostilities are moderated and regard is restored in the mediation process.