Navigating Moral Reasoning in Mediation

Abstract

This chapter examines the importance of understanding of moral reasoning processes in individuals involved in mediation. It discusses Lawrence Kohlberg's model of moral reasoning and applies it to a case study of a workplace dispute. The chapter also discusses the care ethic versus justice ethic debate put forth by feminist psychologists challenging mainstream theories of moral reasoning. The chapter concludes by examining the impact of moral reasoning processes on mediation and how it might lead to re-imagining the skill set needed mediate conflict effectively (i.e., skills that involve emotional intelligence).