Module 1 : Final Graded Quiz :Mediation and Conflict Resolution (Negotiation, Mediation and Conflict Resolution Specialization) Answers 2026

Question 1

Which statements do NOT apply to the definition of mediation?

• ❌ Mediation is a process of dialogue

• ❌ Mediation is a process of negotiation

• ❌ The mediator works to achieve a fair deal for all parties

• ❌ The mediator facilitates improved mutual understanding

• ✅ The mediator will step out of his/her neutral stance if necessary

Explanation

A mediator must remain neutral at all times. Stepping out of neutrality contradicts the very definition of mediation.

Question 2

When may a mediator resort to a directive approach?

• ❌ When the mediator sees a familiar solution

• ❌ When one party blocks the solution deliberately

• ✅ When one or both parties resort to conflictual tactics

Explanation

A directive approach is justified to restore constructive dialogue and prevent escalation, not to impose solutions.

Question 3

Which interaction dynamics justify the use of mediation?

• ✅ Little or no trust between parties

• ✅ Poor communication and miscomprehension

• ❌ Initial negotiation has turned into a wish to mediate

• ✅ Values and assumptions are irreconcilable

Explanation

Mediation is particularly useful when trust, communication, and shared understanding break down.

Question 4

Which statement about emotions in mediation is FALSE?

• ❌ Emotions can distort or destroy dialogue

• ✅ The mediator must avoid emotions entirely

• ❌ Mediators may use caucuses to explore emotions

• ❌ Controlled confrontation may be allowed

Explanation

Emotions are managed, not suppressed. Proper expression can be constructive.

Question 5

Role: “Referee–watchdog” – which description is the ODD ONE OUT?

• ❌ Especially relevant when mediator has professional expertise

• ❌ Remind parties of risks and costs

• ❌ Regulate behaviors and avoid excesses

• ✅ Help parties find innovative perspectives and solutions

Explanation

Innovation belongs to a problem-explorer role, not the referee–watchdog.

Question 6

Role: “Leader and authority” – which description is the ODD ONE OUT?

• ❌ Especially relevant when mediator has professional expertise

• ❌ Remind parties of risks and costs

• ❌ Regulate behaviors and avoid excesses

• ✅ Help parties find innovative perspectives and solutions

Explanation

Authority ensures structure and discipline, not creativity.

Question 7

Role: “Problem and resource explorer” – which description is the ODD ONE OUT?

• ❌ Especially relevant when mediator has professional expertise

• ❌ Remind parties of risks and costs

• ✅ Regulate behaviors and avoid excesses

• ❌ Help parties find innovative perspectives and solutions

Explanation

Behavior regulation belongs to referee roles, not exploration roles.

Question 8

Which does NOT apply to the role of ‘Communicator-facilitator’?

• ❌ Guarantee balanced interaction

• ❌ Use psychological skills to foster communication

• ❌ Help transcend rigid positions

• ✅ Break norms to find creative solutions

Explanation

Breaking norms and creativity belong to problem-exploration, not communication facilitation.

Question 9

What distinguishes mediation from arbitration or judiciary systems?

• ✅ Voluntary process

• ✅ Agreement only if everyone agrees

• ✅ Parties may leave at any time

• ✅ Consensus-based

• ✅ Mediator does not decide

Explanation

Mediation is non-binding, consensual, and party-driven, unlike arbitration or courts.

Question 10

Definition of an ‘inclusive agreement’ in mediation

• ✅ All conflict dimensions covered, innovative solutions proposed, consensus reached

• ❌ Parties accept mediator’s judgement even if they dislike it

• ❌ Majority decision endorsed by mediator

Explanation

Inclusive agreements require consensus, not imposed or majority decisions.

Question 11

Which is NOT a mediation rule?

• ❌ Full confidentiality

• ❌ No interruption and mutual respect

• ✅ No emotions allowed

• ❌ Full deniability

• ❌ Commitment to implement agreed solutions

Explanation

Emotions are acknowledged and managed, not banned.

Question 12

Valid advice for obtaining commitment to solutions

• ❌ Help parties accept solutions they dislike

• ❌ Link justifications to law, benchmarks, precedents

• ❌ Foster trade-offs if blocked

• ✅ Refrain from preventing comparison with away-from-the-table solutions

Explanation

Parties must always be free to compare with their alternatives (BATNA/SAFT); blocking this undermines legitimacy.

🧾 Summary Table