#904: Peer Mediation: A Process of Respect

We visit a diverse small city school that has a variety of pro-active student centered programs in place. When a fight breaks out in the cafeteria, the two boys choose to participate in peer mediation rather than face the administration. We follow the session as two experienced student mediators explain and lead them through the process. After setting the rules, they ask each to describe the incident, their feelings and past relationship. Then they help clarify the problems creating the hostility. The boys are encouraged to suggest their own solutions and a contract is written out, which they both agree to and sign. Graphics reinforce the steps in the mediation procedure. By the end, the boys acknowledge how it has helped not only them, but has diffused tensions among their groups at the school. The peer mediators share how their training has also benefited their relationships with their friends and family. This program can be used to raise awareness among students about peer mediation, encouraging those in a conflict to choose this option, as well as those interested in becoming mediators. It also provides a training tool for counselors and others starting peer mediation programs. *DVDs are also available on over 50 other topics of critical interest to teens. For full descriptions, transcripts, video clips, discussion guides, lesson plans and more on this and other topics, please visit our website, inthemix.org. For one day shipping orders or volume discounts please call 800-343-5540. Note: VHS copies are also available for some programs.

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