Comparison of client satisfaction with mediated and adversarial divorce
Date
1988
Authors
Leibel, Linda S.
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Abstract
Using the Client Assessment of Mediation (Divorce) Services and the Profile of Mood States data was collected from two groups of clients, a mediation group and an adversarial group, to determine differences in satisfaction with the separation process. Significant differences were found in satisfaction with custody/visitation, E(l,44) = 5.98, J2_ < .01; satisfaction with the mediator /lawyer and the process, F(l ,44) = 18.79, 12-. < .001; and willingness to recommend the process, .E(l,44) = 48.73, g < .001 . Lower levels of psychological stress ·were found on measures of tension/ anxiety, _E(l,44) = 6.56, I2. <.01; depression/ dejection, E(l,44) = 9.12, g < .004; anger /hostility. E(l,44) =5.30, I2. < .02; and confusion/bewilderment E(l,44) = 5.16, I2. < .02. Without exception the higher levels of satisfaction and the lower levels of stress were found in the mediation group. Although there were some variables that did not result in significant differences be tween groups, on no measure were adversarial clients more satisfied or less stressed than their mediation counterparts. The results of this study support previous research that suggests mediation clients are more satisfied with the mediation process and offers new data concerning differences in stress levels between the two groups.