| There are differing opinions about the comparative effectiveness of mediators by their primary profession. This study compared divorce mediators from the primary professions of law, mental health, accounting and a combined group of "other" professions. One hundred and three Florida Divorce mediators were administered the Myers Briggs Type Indicator, and surveyed as to their choice of strategies and techniques. The literature identifies several models of mediation in use; some highly structured, some moderately structured, and some therapeutic in focus, involving a goal of improved post divorce relationships for parents and children.;Subjects were also asked to indicate how many of their last ten cases reached agreement in 18 different issues which can potentially present in mediation. Results of the survey and MBTI were computer analyzed at the Center for Application of Psychological Type.;The results of the study found few significant differences between mediators by primary profession. Accountant mediators had less overall successes in mediation, particularly in issues concerning child support, and repayment of loans. Mental Health mediators were more likely to include children in the mediation. Attorneys mediators were least likely to co-mediate, while accountant mediators were most likely to co-mediate. All mediators place priority on the needs of the child. Few mediators request to hear a review of the marriage. Most of the mediators encourage expression of strong, appropriate emotion, and most mediators do not terminate the mediation when there is an imbalance of power.;Type differences were found in mediators who choose to teach new conflict resolution skills (NTs); include children in the mediation (ENFJs); reprimand disputants for irrational ideas and behaviors, (ESTJs); refer to an attorney, (NPs); suggest litigation instead of mediation (EJs); arbitrate when there is an impasse, (INTJs); and co-mediate, (INFJs, ENFJs). Less agreements were reached in income taxes, (INTJs), sole ownership of a business, (INTJs), life insurance, (ISFJs, ESFJs), and IRAs/Retirement, (ESFJs).;The study concluded that personality type is more predictive of strategy and outcome than is primary profession of the mediator. |
