NCJ Number
141271
Journal
Mediation Quarterly Volume: 10 Issue: 2 Dated: (Winter 1992) Pages: 155-165
Date Published
1992
Length
11 pages
Annotation
The intent is to identify the value base of mediation and to analyze in a preliminary way the compatibility of the value base with the primary principles found in most professional codes of ethics.
Abstract
The four near-universal principles of professional ethics, namely beneficience, nonmaleficence, justice, and autonomy, all on some level appear compatible with both the value base and the theory base of family mediation. Most of the sets of professional standards have provisions derived from the principle of nonmalfeasance, but none seem to include standards derived from the principle of beneficience. As it appears unacceptable to require them to increase the good of their clients, the concept of professional care is missing from these codes. Autonomy in the form of self-determination is found in nearly every version of family mediation codes. Justice emerges as an underlying principle in provisions requiring the mediator to clearly state fees and not to prolong mediation unduly, but none speak to the provision of providing services to the needy or indigent. To realize consistency, clarity, and usefulness, family mediation codes need to reflect the values of the profession. 14 references