| This dissertation explores an emergent social practice around conflict---Restorative Circles (developed by Dominic Barter)---in order to generate a theoretical understanding highlighting its main facets utilizing a process-oriented ontological framework of interaction, based on philosophy of Eugene Gendlin. Qualitative research and analysis methods, borrowing from Grounded Theory and Intuitive Inquiry, and theoretical synthesis based on Gendlinian theory of experiencing and language are employed. Research interviews, workshop recordings and personal experience and engagement are utilized in order to develop a novel articulation of the particular dialogue process.;This exploration aimed to serve the purpose of exemplifying a process-oriented social inquiry, theoretically articulating a social practice and contributing to an ongoing dialogue about Restorative Circles and restorative practices field. Particular facets of this praxis were identified in both a structural and process-oriented senses. The inquiry focused on significant transformative moments people experienced in the circles, articulating the different dimensions and qualities of these shifts. These qualities further supported the development of a grounded understanding of conflict and dialogue, through a process ontological framework. The result has implications for how we understand dialogue, conflict, and change as well as the development of public spaces in which collaborative modes of decision making can take place. |
