Peer mediation is both a program and a process
where students of the same age-group facilitate resolving disputes between two people or small groups. This process has proven effective in schools around the United States, changing the way students understand and resolve conflict in their lives. Changes include improved self-esteem, listening and critical thinking skills, and school climate for learning, as well as reduced disciplinary actions and less fights. These skills are transferable outside of the classroom.
The process is voluntary for both sides;
peer mediators do not "make decisions" but rather work towards a win-win resolution for both sides in order to avoid further trouble. Administrators in charge of discipline incorporate conflict resolution into their strategies and processes
Types of problems include
| Rumor and gossip | Minor assaults and fighting, |
| Relationship difficulties/harassment | Cheating and stealing, |
| Racial and cultural confrontations | Vandalism |
Classroom or extracurricular disputes |
More serious problems require professional referral
and are not appropriate for peer mediation. These include: sexual abuse, assault, suicide, drug use, weapon possession, and those that involve legal problems.
