Background
Party A (F, 29) and Party B (M ,38) Separated 1 year ago. They have a 10-year-old daughter and an 8-year-old son. Conflict arose around school choices and extracurricular activities, with each parent believing their input should take precedence.
Conflict & Escalation
Repeated clashes over enrollment in activities, tutors, and school trips led to tense phone calls and emails. The children were stressed, confused, and sometimes resistant to participate in school events.
Behaviours & Dynamics Observed
| Category | Observed Behaviour | Insight |
|---|---|---|
| Emotional | Frustration, competitiveness | Both parents wanted control over decision-making |
| Communication | Frequent argumentative emails | Highlighted need for structured discussion and boundaries |
| Relational | Feeling disregarded | Parents needed acknowledgment of each other’s concerns |
| Logistics | Overlapping activities and decisions | Needed a unified plan |
Mediation Approach
- Decision Matrix: Created a shared document mapping responsibilities for school and extracurricular activities.
- Guided Discussion: Mediator helped parents prioritize the children’s interests over parental preferences.
- Conflict Boundaries: Established rules for communication and timely decision-making.
Resolution
Parents implemented a coordinated decision system ensuring both could contribute input, but the children experienced clear, consistent guidance. Conflicts reduced, and both parents reported feeling more confident in shared parenting.