Conflict Resolution for The Helping Professions, Second edition

摘要

Barsky is a professor in social work with a combined background in law and conflict resolution. She has developed her expertise in practice and teaching conflict resolution, particularly in the areas of divorce, child welfare and community mediation since the early 1990s. This is the second edition of her book which was first published in 2000. It covers both fundamental and advanced knowledge and skills about conflict resolution. This book contained eight chapters. Chapter 1 offers an overview of conflict resolution, with elaborations of the related concepts. It also draws the linkages between conflict resolution and seven disciplines. Chapter 2 further examines the complexities of conflict resolution practice, in terms of awareness, value base, types of conflicts to be handled, and the skills of the practitioners. Chapters 3 to 6 cover the four most common methods of conflict resolution: negotiation, mediation, group facilitation, and advocacy. Each chapter includes detailed explanation about the techniques, with case studies, discussion questions and exercises, allowing readers to understand how these approaches can be used in real life. Chapter 7 introduces other alternative approaches in conflict resolution, such as peacebuilding, parenting coordination, family group conferencing, and spiritual healing. Chapter 8 concludes with a discussion and suggestions for the development of this field of interest.