Emilie Mechler
This research paper looks at alternative dispute resolution (ADR) techniques and how these techniques may address violence in areas of Chicago. Mediation, conflict coaching and the CeaseFire program were assessed to identify processes and skills that have been, or might be, used to address community issues and violence. Community issues included media representation, financial security, interpersonal conflict, and police-community relations. The paper reviewed skills in mediation and conflict coaching. It then examined the skills that the CeaseFire program utilized, which included communication, leadership, active listening, feedback, managing credible witnesses, teamwork, and an ability to learn from lessons. The study found overlap between the skills in CeaseFire’s approach with mediation and conflict coaching approaches. The paper also noted ways in which the skills might be further combined to better address issues surrounding violence in areas of Chicago.