Uncomfortable silences, raw emotions, and the weight of a looming divorce – under these circumstances, even a shared space could feel like too much to handle. Divorce can be a troubling terrain to navigate, especially when you (literally) can’t stand to be in the same room together.
Communication is a key component of conflict resolution, and, without it, reaching an understanding is almost impossible. In the aftermath of a divorce, many couples find themselves engaging in deadlock, face-to-face arguments. Rather than achieving any progress, it’s a whole lot of bickering, friction, and impasse. That’s where shuttle mediation comes in.
Shuttle mediation is a conflict resolution method commonly used in high-tension scenarios. The participants in dispute are separated into different rooms, while the mediator goes back and forth in an attempt to mediate between the two.
Shuttle mediation is a useful alternative during which each party can express their issues and needs without reservation. Above all, mediators are tasked with instilling trust in both parties while helping them resolve family disputes with minimal conflict.
This technique can be carried out in person, with parties in separate rooms or digitally, through email or virtual calls. Shuttle mediation can even be useful in international settings when couples cannot be physically present or have busy time schedules.
First, your mediator will introduce themselves and request an overview of the issues each party would like to tackle. Then, they will meet with participants privately to better understand their perspectives. During this initial session, the couple has an opportunity to express their concerns and desired outcomes independently.
Once the mediator has enough information, they will begin to act as a messenger between the two parties: relaying information, laying out proposals, and hashing out concerns. During this time, full confidentiality and impartiality are expected from the mediator.
This form of shuttle communication continues until the two parties reach an agreement or decide to conclude the mediation. Most couples undergo an average of three sessions, however, this varies in accordance with the circumstances of the case. If applicable, the mediator will help draft an agreement that outlines the terms and conditions of the resolution.
Shuttle mediation can help parties turn a combative environment into a collaborative one. Here are just a few of its advantages:
While shuttle mediation may not be the best option for every couple, there are a few scenarios in which this conflict resolution method thrives. For example, survivors of domestic abuse may not feel comfortable enough to express their needs or speak truthfully in front of their abuser.
Individuals under these circumstances may feel insecure about their physical and emotional safety; therefore, limiting direct interaction is a positive aspect of shuttle mediation. As a form of mediation, it provides a neutral and safe space while keeping emotional burdens to a minimum. You can read further benefits here.
Depending on the dynamics of your divorce, you may find that shuttle mediation has more drawbacks than positive aspects. Some examples of these disadvantages include:
Let’s look at an example in which shuttle mediation may not be the most appropriate choice for a couple undergoing a divorce. For example, couples who find themselves in a high-conflict custody dispute may not lean towards shuttle mediation. Instead, they need to engage in direct communication.
Learning to understand each other’s needs is crucial to building a co-parenting relationship. Time-sensitive decisions require prompt decision-making and shuttle mediation may limit each parent’s ability to work with visual cues or empathise with each other. Under these circumstances, the participants may prefer to find an alternative form of mediation.
So, what makes shuttle mediation so different from other forms of conflict resolution? Firstly, it allows couples to conduct separate sessions during their divorce, providing a space for each to share their perspective independently. Rather than engaging in direct communication, they speak to each other and express their concerns via a mediator.
Having a messenger involved to relay the information between both parties can help improve communication while reducing the level of direct interaction. However, it can also lead to miscommunication as both parties rely on the mediator’s interpretation of the message.
This form of mediation provides couples with greater flexibility, as both parties do not need to be present to take part in the session. Ideally, this environment will create a neutral space for each participant to put forward their needs freely.
Rather than addressing emotional dynamics in a face-to-face environment, each participant navigates the process individually. This could help reduce the level of emotional strain endured, but it may also hinder the directness of the communication.
Overall, this form of mediation offers a viable alternative for couples that need greater assistance when it comes to communication. It’s the optimal choice for those who have difficulties getting their points across in front of one another. Before choosing a mediation approach, identifying your specific needs and circumstances is of the essence.
If you find yourself at a standstill amid your divorce, where negotiations have hit a wall and any signs of progress appear elusive, you may need to consider an alternative method.
Shuttle mediation provides couples with a different way to communicate, solve problems, and reach an agreement. With the right kind of mediator, your transition towards a post-divorce life should feel as smooth as possible.
If you feel like shuttle mediation could help you navigate your divorce or you simply have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out.
If you have any questions, call us on 07791 560 161 or fill out this form
