Navigating the emotional landscape of mediation: An exploration of the role of emotions in conflict resolution and the strategies for effective management

• Published date: 01 March 2024
• Author: Mnotho Thamsanqa Ngcobo
• Date: 01 March 2024
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.1002/crq.21409

PRACTICE NOTE

Navigating the emotional landscape of

mediation: An exploration of

the role of emotions in conflict resolution

and the strategies for effective management

Mnotho Thamsanqa Ngcobo

Faculty of Law, North-West University,

Potchefstroom, South Africa

Correspondence

Mnotho Thamsanqa Ngcobo, Faculty of

Law, North-West University,

Potchefstroom, South Africa.

Email: mnothongcobo@gmail.com

Abstract

This paper explores the role of emotions in conflict

resolution, explicitly focusing on mediation. Emotions

are an inherent aspect of conflict and can significantly

impact the negotiation process. Understanding the

emotional landscape of mediation is crucial for

effective conflict management. This paper discusses

the various emotions that arise during mediation, the

strategies for effective emotional control, and the role

of the mediator in navigating the emotional terrain of

the negotiation process.

1|INTRODUCTION

Mediation is a crucial aspect of dispute resolution, yet the emotional aspects of this process

are often overlooked. Emotions are an integral part of human nature and can play a signifi-

cant role in conflict resolution. However, the question of managing emotions during media-

tion remains challenging for all parties involved. Should emotions be suppressed or embraced

during the process? What role do mediators play in managing emotions? These questions

highlight the importance of understanding the emotional landscape of mediation. This paper

aims to explore the role of emotions in conflict resolution and provide strategies for effective

management. We will begin by examining key theories of emotions and how they relate to

mediation processes.

Received: 23 February 2023 Revised: 31 July 2023 Accepted: 22 August 2023

DOI: 10.1002/crq.21409

This is an open access article under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs License, which permits

use and distribution in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited, the use is non-commercial and no modifications or

adaptations are made.

© 2023 The Author. Conflict Resolution Quarterly published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Conflict Resolution Quarterly. 2024;41:327–335. wileyonlinelibrary.com/journal/crq 327