USING STRENGTH-BASED APPROACHES IN MEDIATION: SUPPORTING CLIENT RESOURCES

Abstract

The article explores the possibilities of integrating a strength-based approach into the mediation process as a tool for supporting clients’ resourcefulness in the context of social work. The aim is to find out how focusing on the strengths of the individual contributes to effective conflict resolution and at the same time supports the personal development, autonomy and social adaptation of clients. The article examines the main provisions of the theory focused on the strengths of clients, reveals the essence of mediation, its principles and ethical principles in accordance with the State Standard for Social Mediation Services (Mediation). Special attention is paid to the role of the mediator in identifying the client’s internal resources, in particular through the use of open questions, reflective listening, positive reinforcement, visualization techniques and a narrative approach. It is shown that mediation in this format goes beyond a simple dispute resolution technique and turns into a resource practice that activates the clients’ potential for change. It is substantiated that the support of positive self-esteem, belief in one’s own strengths and social inclusion are important results of the application of this approach. The conclusion states that strength-based mediation contributes to the enhancement of the client’s subjectivity and creates conditions for making decisions that meet his real needs and values. Prospects for further research are seen in studying the effectiveness of such an approach in different types of mediation and developing tools for practical implementation.