Efficacy of Peer Mediation for Adolescents in Schools

Date of Award

Spring 2020

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Department

Psychology; College of Arts & Sciences

First Advisor

Adam Levy

Abstract

Schools all over the world have searched for methods and programs that help ensure the safety of students and to create the best possible academic environment. One such method that has been established is peer mediation. Peer mediation is defined as a method in which a third party who is of similar age helps resolve a dispute between two or more parties. This paper hoped to analyze research on the effectiveness of peer mediation and whether it can be a viable method for schools to utilize. Results have shown that while most peer mediations are generally successful in resolving conflicts and providing knowledge on conflict resolution techniques, there are several barriers and key components that may prevent peer mediation from being widespread. Further research on adolescents was analyzed in order to discover possible explanations as to why peer mediation may or may not be effective. Factors such as cognitive development, social factors, and reliance on peers may have some effect on peer mediation success.

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Efficacy of Peer Mediation for Adolescents in Schools

Schools all over the world have searched for methods and programs that help ensure the safety of students and to create the best possible academic environment. One such method that has been established is peer mediation. Peer mediation is defined as a method in which a third party who is of similar age helps resolve a dispute between two or more parties. This paper hoped to analyze research on the effectiveness of peer mediation and whether it can be a viable method for schools to utilize. Results have shown that while most peer mediations are generally successful in resolving conflicts and providing knowledge on conflict resolution techniques, there are several barriers and key components that may prevent peer mediation from being widespread. Further research on adolescents was analyzed in order to discover possible explanations as to why peer mediation may or may not be effective. Factors such as cognitive development, social factors, and reliance on peers may have some effect on peer mediation success.