The potential utility of body language and personality in mediation

Abstract

The study of Body Language and Personality Traits has produced tools and skillsets applicable in many disciplines. Although their relationship with Dispute Resolution has been investigated in the past, this research has been focused in Mediation. It is the purpose of the present work to analyse whether the combination of Body Language and Personality Traits knowledge in the field of Mediation is realistically useful enough to justify fullyfledged research. This study adopts a mixed methods approach with a comprehensive literature that has been compiled, and research instruments designed such as surveys and interviews with experts of the body focusing on leading mediators to explore different options of dealing with people depending on personalities while practicing the profession. The results indicate that there is a difference in personalities, their coping styles and movements of the body. Although some relation from personality and body language was found. The usefulness of it in the mediation practice has been questioned. Nonetheless, experts state that the knowledge of it could only come as beneficial, especially when it comes to the reading of the body. This study recommends that Mediators, especially new ones, should receive training on body language reading. If possible, it is recommended for the practitioners to have supervision and evaluation guides to develop their skills more effectively. It is also recommended further research to establish an appraisal system in alternative dispute resolution processes.