Mediators are to be neutral and not choose either side. They are there to restore communication and allow for the conflict to be discussed. As a communication majors, we are taught how to effectively communicate with a diversity of people without passing judgment. We are always reminded to keep our minds open and not be biased. This would make a good mediator because we would keep an open mind with both parties and effectively communicate with them.
It may be difficult for lawyers and psychotherapists to do this because they are usually faced with legal cases and mostly have to choose one side to defend or go against. It is harder for them to play the role of mediator because they would not have as much of an open mind and would pass judgment easily. Being a mediator is not a easy task and one must have proper training in order to successfully be a mediator.
I wonder sometimes if even lawyers and psychotherapist have trouble keeping their own opinions and beliefs out when working with their clients. I mean they too have to be neutral in some cases when they hear what people are doing. I mean lawyers have to defend murders, therapist have to deal with hearing some peoples personal desires or activities. In some ways everyone has to be neutral.
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