Peer Mediation as a Mechanism for Resolution of Inter-Personal Conflicts among Students

Abstract

This study was set out to assist students of A.M.E Zion Girls Senior High School to resolve their inter-personal conflicts which affected their academic performance and marred their social relationship using peer mediation. The action research design was employed using simple random sampling and purposive sampling techniques. Interview, questionnaire, and observation were the instruments used to collect data from 60 students for the study. It was discovered from the study that the students placed value in things they were involved in especially on issues that concerned them. They therefore found meaning to the peer mediation approach to resolving their inter-personal conflicts. The researcher used the vehicle of ‘Peace Club’ in the school to implement the intervention. Some recommendations based on the findings included the establishment of structures by Ghana Education Service (GES) in all the Junior High and Senior High Schools in the country for peer mediation groups to be formed, the training of selected teachers from Junior and senior High schools as mediators who would in turn train students in their schools to obtain mediation skills, and the provision of facilities such as rooms in schools to enhance the conduct of peer mediation.

Keywords: Peer Mediation, Conflict, Students, Mediator, Senior High School