Final answer:
Mediation involves a neutral third party facilitating communication, whereas conciliation involves suggesting solutions and focusing on emotional issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
To differentiate between mediation and conciliation, and to understand skills for resolving inter-communal conflicts, consider the following distinctions:
- Mediation involves a neutral third party who facilitates communication between the disputing parties, guiding the process without offering specific solutions.
- Conciliation involves a more active role for the third party, who may suggest solutions and work towards rebuilding the relationship between the parties.
Both processes aim to resolve conflicts, but they do so in different ways:
- Mediation often deals with a broader range of issues, including legal aspects, and the mediator works to help the parties reach a mutually acceptable agreement.
- Conciliation frequently addresses the emotional aspects of a conflict, aiming to improve the relationship and encourage cooperation.
The skills necessary for resolving conflicts include effective communication, active listening, empathy, and problem-solving. Strategies such as choosing words carefully, remaining open and respectful, asking open-ended questions, focusing on the problem rather than assigning blame, and seeking assistance from a supervisor or HR department if needed are all part of conflict resolution. Additionally, resources such as professional development courses, reading material, and online resources can bolster one's ability to resolve conflicts nonviolently.
SUM UP of the final answer:
- Mediation and conciliation involve third parties with different levels of involvement in the resolution process.
- Skills for effective conflict resolution include communication, empathy, and active listening.
- Professional development and seeking guidance can improve conflict resolution abilities.