Family Mediation

It is important to understand that when a marriage is over, it is not the time for retribution and revenge, but rather the opportunity to strike out for a new life while providing for and protecting the children. This book—the first comprehensive treatment of family mediation for Chinese families—provides the knowledge and skills to achieve that objectives.

Throughout the book the author discusses practical techniques for resolving family conflicts and creating parenting plans. The model described enables mediators—who may be social work, psychology or legal professionals—to negotiate the issues in dispute so as to arrive at a settlement that is mutually acceptable, and is fair and equitable to the families. Divorcing couples should also read the book because it will help them with ideas and principles leading towards amicable solutions.

Howard H. Irving, PhD, is a professor at the University of Toronto, Faculty of Social Work, cross-appointed to the Faculty of Law. He is the past president of Family Mediation Canada and has been a practising therapist and family mediator for over twenty-five years. In Hong Kong he has taught intensive family mediation courses in universities for students seeking certification. More recently, he has lectured in Beijing and consulted with numerous Chinese agencies in promoting mediation throughout China.

“This is a culturally relevant, timely and useful book for young helping professionals who wish to take up family mediation as a future career, for mediation professionals who believe in the importance of continuing professional education, and for the general public especially those planning for a divorce. The authors have provided us with a comprehensive understanding of family mediation and its applicability in the Chinese context.” —Professor Joyce L.C. Ma, Department of Social Work, Chinese University of Hong Kong

“Professor Howard H. Irving, a leading authority on family mediation, presents a comprehensive description of the therapeutic family mediation model. By including the experiences of local experts, the book systematically discusses the theory and practice of therapeutic family mediation, its adaptation to the special needs of Chinese families, and the clinical issues involved. The first of its kind in the Chinese context, this is an invaluable reference for helping professionals working with divorcing families.” —Dr Mo-yee Lee, College of Social Work, Ohio State University