Mediating When One Party is Overly Dominant

4 hours | CPD Program

Power imbalances are a natural part of many mediation settings—but when one party is overly dominant, it can undermine the process and silence meaningful dialogue. This focused CPD session explores practical strategies for recognising, managing, and rebalancing dynamics when one participant exerts undue control, whether through assertiveness, status, manipulation, or intimidation.

Participants will explore:

The psychological and behavioral traits of dominant parties

Subtle signs of power imbalance and how it affects mediation outcomes

Techniques to empower quieter or marginalized voices without losing neutrality

Managing interruptions, aggression, or narrative control

Setting effective ground rules and using structured interventions

This session includes case-based discussions, roleplays, and practical tools to help mediators stay in control of the process while ensuring a fair and safe environment for all parties. A vital workshop for mediators in workplace, commercial, family, or community disputes where power dynamics often arise.