# Table of Contents
1. Introduction to Positive Psychology
- Understanding the Shift from Disease Model to Strengths-Based Approach
- Martin Seligman's Impact on the Field of Psychology
2. The Essence of Positive Psychology
- Definition and Core Areas of Focus
- Key Concepts: Happiness, Flourishing, and Resilience
3. Harnessing Positive Psychology in Mediation
- Expanding the Role of Mediators Beyond Dispute Resolution
- The Benefits of a Strengths-Based Approach in Conflict
4. Focusing on Strengths Instead of Problems
- Shifting the Narrative: From Conflict to Cooperation
- Techniques to Highlight Strengths in Mediation
5. Building Resilience and Optimism
- Strategies for Nurturing Resilience in Conflict Scenarios
- Encouraging Optimism for Positive Outcomes
6. Creating Resolutions That Matter
- The Importance of Meaningful Resolutions
- Aligning Outcomes with Values and Long-Term Goals
7. Conclusion: A Fresh Take on Mediation
- Elevating Mediation Practices through Positive Psychology
- Future Implications for Mediators
8. Reflection Questions for Mediators and Conciliators
9. Further Resources
- Recommended TED Talk by Martin Seligman on Positive Psychology
Positive psychology emerged in the late 1990’s in response to an increasing emphasis in psychology on the disease model of mental health which focuses on what’s wrong with people and how to fix them (Kim et al., 2012). In 1998, the American Psychological Association (APA) President Martin Seligman addressed his colleagues at the APA annual conference critiquing the fields approach to psychology as it focused on curing mental illness. He then presented a case for preventative care by focusing on human strengths such as courage, resilience optimism, and so on which might act as buffers against mental illness. According to Seligman, by nurturing human strengths and creating more meaningful and fulfilling lives, mental health problems become more manageable, if not preventable.
Positive psychology has been defined as “the scientific study of optimal human functioning that aims to discover and promote the factors that allow individuals and communities to thrive” (Seligman & Csikszentmihalyi, 2000). Accordingly, its research areas include happiness, flourishing, optimism, self-esteem, resilience, strengths and virtues, mindfulness, and the study of what makes life worth living. We will learn more about positive psychology in week five when we study the humanistic approach.
Harnessing Positive Psychology: A New Approach for Mediators
As mediators, we often dive deep into the thick of conflict, sorting through emotions and trying to find a way forward for everyone involved. But what if we could do more than just settle disputes? What if we could actually help people come out of the process feeling better, more connected, and ready to move forward in a positive way? That’s where positive psychology comes in, and it’s something that can really boost the outcomes of our work.
Positive psychology popped up in the late ‘90s as a bit of a reaction to the way psychology was leaning heavily on what’s wrong with people and how to fix them. Martin Seligman, the president of the American Psychological Association at the time, shook things up by suggesting that, while fixing problems is important, we were missing out on something crucial—focusing on what’s right with people. He argued that if we paid more attention to strengths like courage, resilience, and optimism, we could actually prevent a lot of mental health issues from cropping up in the first place.
This whole idea is at the heart of positive psychology, which is all about figuring out what makes people thrive and how to promote those things. It’s not just about getting by—it’s about flourishing, finding happiness, and building a life that’s truly worth living.
So, how do we, as mediators, tap into these ideas to improve what we do?
Focusing on Strengths Instead of Just Problems
One of the key ideas in positive psychology is shifting the focus from what’s wrong to what’s right. In mediation, this can be a game-changer. Instead of only zeroing in on what’s gone wrong between parties, we can help them see the strengths they bring to the table. Maybe it’s past successes in working together, shared values, or even moments where they showed resilience in the face of challenges.
By helping people recognise these positives, we can create a more constructive vibe in the room. It’s not about ignoring the issues, but about balancing the conversation—yes, we need to address the problems, but let’s also talk about what’s working and how we can build on that.
Building Resilience and Optimism
Conflict can really take the wind out of people’s sails. They might feel defeated, worn out, or just plain pessimistic about the future. But positive psychology reminds us that resilience and optimism are qualities that can be nurtured, even in tough times. As mediators, we can play a big role here by encouraging people to see the conflict as a challenge that they can overcome, rather than a dead end.
Optimism is another tool in our kit. By helping parties see that a positive resolution is not only possible but likely, we can motivate them to engage more openly in the process. When people believe that things can get better, they’re more likely to work towards that better outcome.
Creating Resolutions That Matter
At its core, positive psychology is about making life more meaningful. In our work, this means crafting resolutions that don’t just solve the problem at hand but also add to the parties’ sense of purpose and well-being. Instead of just ironing out the details of who’s right and who’s wrong, we can help people find resolutions that align with their deeper values and long-term goals.
For example, in a workplace conflict, we might not only sort out the immediate issue but also look for ways to create opportunities for professional growth or team-building—something that contributes to a more positive and productive work environment. In family mediation, it could mean focusing on how to foster stronger, more supportive relationships moving forward, rather than just hashing out who gets what.
Wrapping It Up: A Fresh Take on Mediation
Bringing positive psychology into mediation isn’t just about resolving conflicts—it’s about helping people come out of the process stronger, more connected, and better equipped to thrive in the future. By focusing on strengths, building resilience and optimism, and creating resolutions that are meaningful, we can elevate our practice and achieve more sustainable, fulfilling outcomes for everyone involved.
So, the next time you’re sitting down at the mediation table, think about how you can incorporate these ideas. It’s not just about settling disputes—it’s about helping people find the best in themselves and each other, even when things get tough. And that, in the end, is what makes our work truly rewarding.
Interested in learning more about handling difficult conversations? Join my free webinar series where we dive deeper into these topics and more. Find out more here.
Reflection Questions for Mediators and Conciliators to Use with Parties at Intake
"Can you identify any strengths or positive qualities in yourself or the other party that could help us work towards a resolution?"
This question encourages the parties to focus on constructive aspects of themselves and the situation, setting a more positive tone for the mediation or conciliation process.
"What would a successful outcome look like for you, not just in terms of resolving the conflict, but in terms of your overall well-being and future relationships?"
This question helps the parties think beyond the immediate conflict and consider how the resolution can contribute to their long-term happiness and satisfaction.
"How have you handled difficult situations or conflicts in the past, and what did you learn from those experiences that might be useful here?"
This question prompts the parties to reflect on past experiences and resilience, encouraging them to draw on those lessons as they approach the current conflict.
If you are interested in learning more now about this optimistic approach to personality you might like to watch this Ted talk by Seligman, himself:
TED. (2008, 21 July). The new era of positive psychology | Martin Seligman [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9FBxfd7DL3E
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Shiv Martin is a nationally accredited mediator, practicing solicitor, conciliator, decision-maker, and certified vocational trainer. With extensive experience in complex dispute resolution, stakeholder engagement, and team building across business, community, and governmental sectors, Shiv brings over a decade of unique and diverse expertise in Law, Management, Vocational Education, and Mediation.
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