Perspectives for Assessing and Working with Power

"Mediators must recognize that mediation is not always the most appropriate conflict resolution strategy."

This document describes two perspectives for understanding, assessing, and balancing power in the context of mediation: mutual dependence and currencies. Tips are provided for when power imbalances become apparent and need addressing on both the short-term and long-term horizons. The limitations of mediation in solving particular situations of imbalanced power are also named.

Lederach, John Paul. “Perspectives for Assessing and Working with Power.” In Mediation and Facilitation Training Manual: Foundations and Skills for Constructive Conflict Transformation, edited by Carolyn Schrock-Shenk, 4th ed., 80–81. Akron, Pennsylvania: Mennonite Conciliation Service, 2000.

Published by and shared with the permission of the Mennonite Central Committee, previously called the Mennonite Conciliation Service.