What is the role of peer mediation within a school counseling framework?

The role of peer mediation within a school counseling framework centers on empowering students to resolve conflicts independently. This approach encourages students to take an active role in finding solutions to their disagreements, which not only helps address immediate issues but also fosters important life skills such as communication, critical thinking, and empathy. Peer mediation programs typically involve training students to facilitate discussions between their peers, enabling them to negotiate and reach mutually acceptable outcomes. This process helps create a supportive school environment where students learn to manage conflicts constructively and develop stronger interpersonal relationships, which aligns with the overall goals of school counseling.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately capture the essence of peer mediation. For instance, focusing solely on teacher-led resolutions would not promote student agency or independence. Emphasizing competition among students runs counter to the collaborative nature of mediation, as this process is about cooperation rather than rivalry. Lastly, the idea of completely eliminating conflicts is unrealistic, as conflicts are a natural part of human interactions; rather, peer mediation aims to manage and resolve them effectively.