DOI: 10.46340/eppd.2024.11.1.2
Maryna Kalashlinska, PhD in Political Science
International Cooperation Centre, Lublin City Hall, Poland
How to cite: Kalashlinska, M. (2024). Applying Reflexive Game Theory to Mediation: New Strategies for Conflict Resolution. Evropsky Politicky a Pravni Diskurz, 11, 1, 12-18. https://doi.org/10.46340/eppd.2024.11.1.2
Abstract
This paper explores the application of Reflexive Game Theory (RGT) in mediation, demonstrating its capacity to enhance the efficacy of mediators in navigating conflicts of varying complexities. It outlines potential strategies for mediators to influence and change the parties’ reflexive perceptions within these conflicts. Reflexive Game Theory, pioneered by Vladimir Lefebvre, offers a versatile framework for analyzing decision-making processes. This theory sheds light on the nuanced manner in which individuals and groups form their decisions, taking into account not only their own perspectives but also their perceptions of others’ intentions and reactions. The author articulates how the practical implementation of RGT’s core principles can markedly augment mediation effectiveness. It spotlights Lefebvre’s dual approach to conflict perception, which presents mediators with two pivotal strategies. The first involves the mediator’s efforts focused on modifying a participant’s self-perception within the. The second direction concentrates on altering a conflicting party’s perception of how a party perceives the opposing side’s views and stances. This dual strategy not only enriches the understanding of conflict dynamics but also arms mediators with sophisticated tools to foster dialogue and achieve sustainable peace. The successful incorporation of RGT in mediation practices promises to revolutionize approaches to conflict resolution. In the article author introduces the innovative concept of “Reflexive Shift Mediation”, emphasizing the mediator’s role in altering parties’ reflexive perceptions to facilitate resolution. This concept, reflecting a critical advance in mediation practice, requires further exploration and development. By offering a distinctive perspective for viewing and resolving conflicts, RGT paves the way for deeper comprehension and more nuanced mediation interventions.
Keywords: mediation, Reflexive Game Theory, RGT, conflict resolution, mediator strategies, conflict complexity, Reflexive Shift Mediation.
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