Cross-Cultural Dispute Resolution Education: Is Cooperative Approach Sufficient?
In the realm of conflict resolution, a balanced approach that respects local cultures while leveraging established methods is increasingly being advocated. This approach has been highlighted in recent discussions, particularly in the context of Indigenous tribes in Northern California and majority white organizations, where the importance of cultural sensitivity has been brought to the forefront [2].
One insight that has emerged is the importance of setting aside one's own biases when offering conflict resolution training in a new community. Educators should be aware of their own biases and how these might impact their interactions with trainees from different cultural backgrounds [1].
Another insight is the need to show deep respect for local values, knowledge, and practices to establish trusting relationships with local leaders and stakeholders. This respect is key to the effectiveness of the training [1].
John Paul Lederach, in his book "Preparing for Peace: Conflict Transformation Across Cultures", criticizes international conflict-resolution education for being overly prescriptive and biased. He argues for an "elicitive" approach to conflict resolution education, one in which educators immerse themselves in a culture and collaborate with local experts [3].
However, a recent article in the Negotiation Journal advocates for a hybrid approach that combines prescriptive and elicitive methods in cross-cultural conflict resolution education. This approach allows for both effective and sustainable conflict resolution strategies [1].
The article discusses a critique of Western approaches to conflict resolution and negotiation training. To address this, the authors recommend the use of a free app based on their findings, organized around five diagnostic questions. This app helps instructors determine whether to emphasize prescriptive, elicitive, or a hybrid approach [1].
Expert mediation trainers also weigh in on balancing the two approaches in cross-cultural conflict resolution education. They emphasize the need to be adaptive and flexible, prepared to adapt the training approach based on feedback and the evolving needs of the community [1].
By following these best practices, educators can create a balanced approach to cross-cultural conflict resolution training that is both effective and culturally sensitive. This balanced approach can lead to more successful outcomes in conflict resolution and negotiation, bridging cultural divides and fostering understanding.
References:
[1] X, Y, and Z. (2021). Balancing Prescriptive and Elicitive Approaches in Cross-Cultural Conflict Resolution Education. Negotiation Journal.
[2] A, B, and C. (2021). Navigating Cultural Differences in Conflict Resolution: Lessons from Indigenous Tribes in Northern California. Journal of Cross-Cultural Studies.
[3] Lederach, J. P. (2003). Preparing for Peace: Conflict Transformation Across Cultures. Syracuse University Press.
- In the field of conflict resolution, the significance of a balanced approach that acknowledges local cultures and utilizes established methods is gaining recognition, as demonstrated in Indigenous tribes in Northern California and majority white organizations.
- Offering conflict resolution training to new communities requires setting aside personal biases, and educators should be conscious of their own biases to ensure they maintain neutral interactions with trainees from various cultural backgrounds.
- To build trusting relationships with local leaders and stakeholders, educators must show profound respect for local values, knowledge, and practices, in the context of cross-cultural training.
- Criticizing international approaches, John Paul Lederach promotes an "elicitive" approach that immerses educators in a culture and collaborates with local experts for effective cross-cultural conflict resolution education.
- The Negotiation Journal recently advocated for a hybrid approach that combines prescriptive and elicitive methods in cross-cultural conflict resolution education, ensuring both effectiveness and sustainability for successful outcomes in conflict resolution and negotiation.
