30473 - Conflicts in the Social Groups and Mediation Processes

Course contents

• 1. Theorical specification of the concept of culture(s) from a psycho-social and cultural psychology's point of view. An overview of Italian and foreign literature is given in relation to conflict and mediation; the latter seen as practical solution in the mediation of conflicts.
• 2. Theory of mediation is discussed widely (what it is, its milestones, what it consists of). Various types of mediation are taken as examples: the cultural, the political and the familiar ones.
• 3. Cultural mediator (characteristics and skills) as well as mediation strategies are analysed pointing out the communicative aspects (empathic listening...).
• 4. Mediation is analysed from an ample point of view, as well as discussion on power relation, professional and existential dilemmas, but also adequate solutions found out by mediators.
• 5. A part of the course is dedicated to conflict and mediation in organisations and working contexts, focusing on the following topics:

- management of relation in project management and team building;

- tools to manage conflict;

- outdoor education.

Readings/Bibliography

1. Villano P. e Riccio B. (2008)Cultura e mediazione, Bologna, Il Mulino.

2. Arielli E., Scotto G. (2003)Conflitti e mediazione,Milano, Bruno Mondadori.

3. Rotondi M.(2004)Formazione outdoor : apprendere dall'esperienza : teorie, modelli, tecniche, best practices. Milano: FrancoAngeli.

4. Ferrari F. (2006)La voglia di dare, l'istinto di avere. Gestione delle risorse umane e conflitti organizzativi. Milano: FrancoAngeli

Teaching methods

In addition to lectures there will also be some pen and paper activities and group work.

Assessment methods

A written exam with open ended questions based on the course books.

If the number of students enrolled on the course does not exceed 10 people the exam may take the form of an oral.

Office hours

See the website of Giannino Melotti

See the website of Paola Villano