The Dynamics of Conflict: A Guide to Engagement and Intervention

Praise for the Second Edition of The Dynamics of Conflict

"Mayer once again demonstrates his unique ability to weave theory and practice together with real–world examples whether about warring nations or a family dispute to help readers better understand both the fundamentals and nuances involved in working in the conflict arena. The Dynamics of Conflict is a very important read for anyone who works with people in conflict." Peter Salem, executive director, Association of Family and Conciliation Courts

"In his latest book, Mayer explores the theoretical underpinnings of conflict as it relates to cognitive, emotional, and behavioral dimensions. Personal stories and examples provide practical skills in communication and negotiation, including how to deal with power, impasse, and cross–cultural issues. The book is a must–read for conflict resolution professionals and will also be easily understandable to the public at large a great tool for businesses, parents, governmental agencies, mental health professionals, and educators!" Nina Meierding, Negotiation and Mediation Training Services; former president, Academy of Family Mediators

"Mayer has always provided our field with a dose of common sense, vision, and clarity. With The Dynamics of Conflict we can add cohesion and extraordinary integration. Based on deep experience, these chapters enter our most difficult challenges in ways that offer understanding in the midst of complexity and concrete strategies for response and engagement a masterful example of approaching conflict with skill and respect. Mayer has gifted us with a book that serves the novice practitioner with guideposts, yet opens ever new and exciting pathways for the seasoned conflict specialist." John Paul Lederach, professor of international peacebuilding, Joan B. Kroc Institute, University of Notre Dame; author, The Moral Imagination: The Art and Soul of Building Peace

Praise for the First Edition

"A rare blend of practical experience and theoretical knowledge. Insightful, useful, and thought provoking. I recommend it!" William Ury, coauthor, Getting to Yes, and author, The Third Side

Approach to Conflict vii

PART ONE: CONFLICT 1

1 The Nature of Conflict 3

2 How People Approach Conflict 33

3 Power and Conflict 67

4 Culture and Conflict 92

PART TWO: ENGAGEMENT AND INTERVENTION 121

5 Resolving Conflict 123

6 Engaging Conflict 146

7 Communication 182

8 Negotiation 211

9 Working with Impasse 245

10 Mediation 269

11 Other Approaches to Conflict Intervention 301

12 Why We Intervene in Conflict 333

References 345

About the Author 353

Index 355

Bernie Mayer is a professor at the Werner Institute, Creighton University, and a founding partner of CDR Associates. He has been working in the conflict field since the late 1970s as a mediator, facilitator, trainer, researcher, program administrator, and consultant. He is the author of Staying with Conflict, which won the 2009 outstanding book awarded from the CPR International Institute for Conflict Prevention and Resolution, and Beyond Neutrality, the winner of CPR′s 2004 book award.