Emotions in Mediation: Disputant Perception of the Mediator

An aspect of international mediation, often overlooked, is the psychological component. To further this field of study, this paper presents three propositions related to disputant perception of mediator emotions. First, disputant perception of mediator emotions influences a disputant's understanding of the mediator. Second, disputant observation of the mediator's negative emotions will be more prevalent than positive emotions. Finally, mediator body language and verbal displays of emotion will be of equal significance. Additionally, it is assumed that disputants are aware of a mediator's culture during the process of mediation. Twelve specific emotions will be examined, six negative (fear, anger, sadness, disgust, worry and irritation) and six positive (hope, content, happy, excitement, relief and thrill). A non-probability, non-representative sample group of 12 diplomats, ambassadors and negotiators who have been disputants in formal or informal, official or unofficial inter-state and/or intra-state mediation efforts were interviewed. Interviews were conducted with a standard guide and, with consent, the interviews were recorded. Interview questions measured emotional frequency, typicality, direction and relation. Subsequent questions examined body language and verbal displays of emotion, as well as mediator culture. Data analysis fulfilled intercoder and intracoder requirements. Based on the qualitative evidence, a subsequent section offers an explanation of the qualities and characteristics that an effective mediator needs. In conclusion, by understanding that mediator emotions influence a disputant's perception of the mediator this article significantly enhances our knowledge of international mediation.

About the author

Joshua Smilovitz graduated in 2003 from Eugene Lang College at the New School University in New York City with a major in Social and Historical Inquiry. In 2006 he received his Master's of Arts in International Relations and Diplomacy at Leiden University and Clingendael in The Netherlands. In 2007, he took part in the Young Scientists Summer Program at the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis in Laxenburg, Austria.

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