On a regular basis, I mediate and arbitrate disputes involving people from diverse cultural backgrounds. Communication breakdowns bog down mediations and arbitrations in general, but where cultural diversity is an issue, all...more
Nonverbal communication may impact participants’ thoughts and emotions in a mediation or arbitration and should be considered when evaluating communication feedback during these sessions. While the words that are spoken are...more
Regarding communications in arbitrations and mediations, a neutral who interacts with litigants from different backgrounds may wish to establish common ground, emphasize similarities, and establish empathy to help the...more
As a mediator and arbitrator for the last 10 years, I’ve seen my share of communication disconnects, especially in emotionally charged disputes. As someone with a Ph.D. in communications, I understand that the root of these...more