The Conflict Resolution in College (CRC) Program
About the Conflict Resolution in College (CRC) Student Organization
Conflict is an inevitable part of the human experience, and by learning to manage conflict in positive ways we can harness its power to create positive change in our lives, organizations, and communities. The CRC is an organization for students who want to better understand the nature of conflict and build the skills and confidence to manage conflict in effective and productive ways.
CRC activities include film viewings and discussions, "hot topic" debates, skill-building sessions, and lectures from practitioners.
For more information about the CRC please contact the Center for Dispute Resolution at 417-836-8831 or CDR@MissouriState.edu.
About the CRC Peer Mediation and Conflict Coaching Program
The Conflict Resolution in College (CRC) Peer Mediation and Conflict Coaching Program exists to serve the students of Missouri State University.
The program is designed to help you better understand the nature of the conflicts that arise in everyday life and give you the skills and confidence to deal with them in an effective and positive way.
Student volunteers are trained to provide mediations and conflict coaching services. All program services are FREE for Missouri State students.
How does Peer Mediation work?
Mediation is an informal way to resolve disputes with the help of a neutral peer mediator. Peer mediators are students, just like you, who've been trained to create a safe space for talking about difficult issues, help parties understand each other, and assist parties to find their own solution.
In mediation, everyone has an opportunity to talk about their perspective on the situation. Your peer mediator will help you clarify the important issues and discuss options for creating a lasting solution to the problem.
How does Conflict Coaching work?
When mediation is not appropriate or possible, a peer conflict coach can work with you (in person or by phone) to help you better understand your conflict and explore options for how to successfully manage the situation. They will give you a fresh perspective on your situation, help you see things in a new way, and assist you in brainstorming how you can best deal with conflict or issues.
What types of conflicts can you help with?
Peer mediators and conflict coaches can assist with almost any type of conflict, including:
- Roommate conflicts
- Neighbor disputes
- Work-related disputes
- Disagreements in student groups
- Conflicts with teachers or campus staff
- Conflicts in campus organizations
- And many more!
Does this stuff really work?
In a word - YES! Through conflict coaching and/or peer mediation you can better manage almost any situation. Benefits of the program include that it is:
- Successful - Peer mediation and conflict coaching are very successful ways for people to deal with conflicts, even those that seem impossible to solve.
- Quick - Conflict coaching can be done by phone or in person, and peer mediations can be scheduled quickly at a time that works for everyone involved.
- Free - Missouri State students receive free conflict coaching and peer mediation through the CRC program.
- Private - Peer mediation and conflict coaching have a strict code of confidentiality, which fosters open and honest communication.
- Win-Win - Peer mediation and conflict coaching help you find a solution that works for everyone.
- Flexible - Conflict coaches and peer mediators will work with you to find a unique solution that meets your individual needs and addresses your specific problem.
Student mediators are trained to facilitate these conversations. Peer mediators are enrolled undergraduate or graduate student at Missouri State University. If you are interested in becoming a peer mediator, or for more information, contact the Center for Dispute Resolution at 417-836-8831 or CDR@MissouriState.edu.
Benefits of Mediation
Mediation lets you:
- Communicate your concerns
- Come to a solution you agree with
- Learn skills to help in future conflicts
Mediation is:
- Fast
- Private
- Flexible
- Informal
- Successful
- Free (in the CRC program)
What Types of Disputes Can Be Mediated?
- Roommate conflicts
- Neighbor disputes
- Work-related disputes
- Disagreements in student groups
- Conflicts with teachers or campus staff
- And many more!
The Structure of Mediation
Mediation is a structured dialogue that typically occurs in stages. In Stage 1 the parties each tell their perspective on the situation. In Stage 2 mediators help the parties explore the situation and identify what is really important to everyone. Finally, in Stage 3, mediators use problem-solving techniques to help parties find their own win/win solution.
The mediator's role is to help the parties talk together, help parties understand each other's views, create a safe space for talking about difficult issues, and assist parties to find their own solution.
I'm sold! How to do I get assistance?
For more information, or to request the assistance of a peer conflict coach or peer mediator, contact the Center for Dispute Resolution at 417-836-8831 or via email at CDR@MissouriState.edu.
Would YOU Make a Good Peer Mediator?
In the CRC Peer Mediation program, students request mediation from the CRC program. CRC mediators are assigned in pairs and work as a team. The CRC program provides support to mediators (forms, rooms for mediation, input & feedback, etc.)
As a peer mediator, you will learn valuable skills that are useful in your personal life and valued by future employers. You will also get the chance to help your peers and the campus better manage conflicts. Plus, you have the opportunity to connect with other students who are interested in conflict resolution.
Wonder if you'd make a good mediator? Well, a good mediator is:
- Comfortable with conflict
- Able to be neutral
- Non-judgmental
- A patient listener
- Flexible
- Able to maintain confidentiality
For more information please complete contact the Center for Dispute Resolution at 417-836-8831 or CDR@MissouriState.edu.