Document Type
Research Report
Publication Date
7-31-2017
Abstract
The Parent Mediation Program provides up to four hours of free mediation services from community mediation centers to parents in Massachusetts to assist with parenting disputes that arise from divorce or separation. The popularity of mediation services from the Parent Mediation Program during Fiscal Year 2017 presented a major challenge to the human and financial resources of the Program. Even though the Program budget was depleted, the challenge was met, and mediation services were provided, benefiting majorities of surveyed parents with settlement of their parenting disputes, establishment of better communication with one another, improved management of their conflict, and reduced court involvement in their affairs. In addition, majorities of noncustodial parents were able to make gains in parenting time and in improved interactions with their child. As a consequence, the program and mediators earned the approval of a large majority of participating parents.
Recommended Citation
Massachusetts Office of Public Collaboration. (2017, July 31). Massachusetts Office of Public Collaboration Parent Mediation Program: January-June 2017 and Fiscal Year 2017 Evaluation Report. Boston, MA: Massachusetts Office of Public Collaboration, University of Massachusetts Boston.