HOW TO USE BODY LANGUAGE FOR BETTER OUTCOMES IN MEDIATIONS”

Abstract

This thesis defines and characterizes the use of body language and tries to explain its significant role in the mediation room and the whole process of mediation. According to Albert Mehrabian, who is one of the best researchers in the use of body language, only 7 per cent of our language is taken up by words, with 38 per cent accounting for voice signals such as tone and modulation, with the remaining 55 per cent reserved for non-verbal communication. Body language cannot be turned off; that is, non-verbal cues are always continuous among people. Mediation proceedings are a process of providing information through the use of non-language. However, despite this, training mediators has always focused on verbal communication and rarely mentions nonverbal communication. Body language communication plays a significant role in how we communicate, and trained and expert mediators should pay close attention to the body language signals of disputing parties. Body language signals are always used to convey feelings, moods, provide support for the spoken word, and provide immediate feedback to the messages received. The ability to correctly understand body language can be the most powerful tool for mediators in assisting them in connecting with disputing parties, and they can perfectly express what they mean and navigate through challenging situations during mediation. This also enhances understanding and avoids stalemate situations. As such, trained mediators should improve body language skills for effective mediation.