PEER MEDIATORS

Who are the mediators?
Mediators are specially chosen and trained students who help other students find solutions to their conflicts.

What do mediators do?
When students are involved in a dispute, they are asked if they would like a mediator to help them resolve their problem. If the disputants so choose, the mediators help them by using the mediation process to clarify the nature of the dispute, seek options, and reach a consensus on a mutually satisfactory solution.

What skills will mediators learn in the training?

1. Leadership

2. Communication

o How to listen without taking sides

o How to express feelings and needs

3. Problem solving

4. How to improve school environment

5. How to take responsibility for their own actions.

BENEFITS OF PEER MEDIATION

Benefits for Mediators

• Mediators develop leadership
• Mediators enhance their note-taking and summarizing skills
• Mediators increase their self-esteem
• Mediators' positive status among their peers is increased
• Mediators learn communication skills which are valuable to many situations
• Mediators learn problem-solving techniques applicable to may situations
• Mediators influence other students in a positive manner

Benefits for the Students

• Students become active in the problem-solving process
• Mediation leads to a greater commitment to making solutions work
• Mediation provides positive role models for solving conflicts
• Students assume greater responsibility for solving their own problems
• Students recognize that adult intervention is not always necessary
• The mediation process encourages students to share their feelings and search for constructive ways to meet their needs

Benefits for Families
The mediation process carries over to families. Parents and students have reported that peer mediators use their problem-solving skills at home with their siblings and significant others.

Benefits for Society

• Schools that teach students positive ways to resolve conflicts are aiding in the reduction of violence in our society today.
• Youth who learn to resolve conflicts positively are likely to do the same when they grow up.