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Details
In order to explain dispute resolution processes, assess the suitability of mediation and assist family members to work out mutually agreed decisions and arrangements, mediators need interdisciplinary knowledge combined with empathy, cross-cultural awareness and a high level of interpersonal, communication and conflict management skills.
This 4th Edition of Lisa Parkinson's book refers to recent developments in family law and includes new thinking on mediation theory and practice, and new requirements for child-inclusive mediation. The principles and process of family mediation are explained and illustrated with numerous case examples. Mediation with families during periods of upheaval and change needs to be placed in the context of the family justice system and support systems for adults and children. The appendices contain key sample documentation. This is the authoritative book in its subject area and essential reading for all mediators.
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- Foreword
- Mediation and the management of conflict
- Family mediation - theoretical frameworks
- Considering mediation and assessing suitability
- Designing mediation models
- Navigating through mediation
- Communication skills in mediation
- Child-focused mediation
- Child-inclusive mediation
- Mediating on money matters
- Managing power imbalances in mediation
- Dealing with deadlocks
- Skills in ending mediation
- Research on family mediation
- Becoming a family mediator
- International family mediation and future directions
- Appendices
- Bibliography
- Index
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Lisa Parkinson
Family mediator, trainer and a Vice President of the FMA
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"all of us who work in the system need a comprehensive understanding of family mediation, the practice of which is far more complex and multi-faceted...we will need a vademecum. It will be Lisa Parkinson's book"
Nicholas Wilson, Lord Justice of Appeal, President of the Family Mediators Association
"I have consistently recommended Lisa Parkinson's book as the definitive work on family mediation. I'm delighted that she has produced a 2nd edition"
Henry Brown, Mediator Co-Founder and Vice-President of the Family Mediators Association
"translated into five European languages....a significant indicator of the book's value and success if ever we saw one! if you are professionally involved in family mediation, or you aspire to be, you seriously need the latest edition of this definitive work...an excellent guide" ...
Phillip Taylor MBE
"a must... comprehensive and compelling...This book is not just for mediators: it is essential reading for all practitioners and judiciary in the family justice system."
Elizabeth Walsh, Solicitor and Mediator
“invaluable and indispensable … the second edition is even more comprehensive and compelling … a testament to the enduring and evolving interdisciplinary model of mediation … I recommend this book to: Experienced mediators to remind them of and reinforce their skill base; aspiring mediators for the basic building blocks; lawyers and anyone else who wants to know what family mediation is really all about; anyone interested in family mediation in the current changing climate” ...
Jane Staff, Family Lawyer and Mediator, North Staffordshire
"Why go to the bother of reading an English book on the subject? The answer becomes clear when you read it ... describes how referral to mediation works in practice and how the essential principles of mediation are maintained ...I recommend this book to all mediation trainers and experienced family mediators. I should be very glad if German lawyers, who have tended to steer clear of mediation, would refer their clients to mediation more readily, encouraged by the convincing evidence in this book of mediation's value and effectiveness” …
Christoph C. Paul, Lawyer; Mediator, Berlin
Translated from the German review published in “Zeitschrift für Konflikt-Management”, vol. 5/2011, September/October 2011, p. 160
"a must read ... the text has already been translated into 5 languages, making it a global reference for professionals at every stage of their professional development and practice ... In conclusion, Lisa Parkinson’s book has amply covered the theory and practice of mediation ... its content is informative and relevant ... an essential reference guide ... highly recommend" ...
Roisin O'Neill, Mediator
“The 1st edition of this book was published in 1997 when FM was first about to achieve legislative recognition and some public funding. It became an instant classic. In 2011 assessment for FM suitability became generally obligatory – and this second edition will be granted the same status as its predecessor”
Chris Barton, Emeritus Professor of Family Law and a Vice-President of the Family Mediators Association
Vol. 34, No, 1, March 2012, 137-139
