NCJ Number
99936
Date Published
1985
Length
365 pages
Annotation
This book examines the roles of therapists, lawyers, and divorce mediators in helping couples negotiate divorce settlements.
Abstract
Evidence that divorce settlement negotiations frequently have disappointing results is followed by a detailed examination of factors that complicate the negotiation process. Based upon intensive interviews, case studies, and questionnaire surveys as well as a literature review of relevant clinical and empirical literature, the book then examines the roles, activities, and problems of professionals involved in the divorce process. The discussion of divorce mediation reviews the rise of the divorce mediation movement, the general nature of the mediation process, and the differences between divorce mediation provided by the courts or court-related agencies and mediation paid for by the divorcing parties. A review of the literature on the effectiveness of divorce mediation reveals promising but inconclusive results, especially regarding mediation's usefulness compared to the traditional role of divorce lawyers. Drawing upon both clinical research and theoretical literature, the book details divorce mediator role stresses. Research on the method of structured mediation pioneered by O.J. Coogler is reported, and case studies are used to provide an overview of the mediation process. A typology of divorcing couples is presented along with the consequences for mediated negotiations. One case is examined in detail to illustrate the complexities of the divorce mediator's role and to provide suggestions for managing a highly dysfunctional couple in mediation. Suggestions are offered for selecting and using a divorce therapist, lawyer, or mediator. Study questionnaires, chapter notes, and a bibliography with approximately 300 listings.