INTRODUCTION
In every professional setting, differences in perspectives and experiences are a natural part of human interaction. These differences often create opportunities for discussion, growth, and collaboration among colleagues. However, when supported by strong peer-mediated skills, these situations can be transformed into opportunities for constructive dialogue, mutual understanding, and collective problem-solving.
According to Tabitha and Florence (2019), individual conflict is often described as “man versus self,” which refers to the internal struggles a person experiences due to differing thoughts and emotions. On the other hand, the Conflict Resolution and Peer Mediation Toolkit by IREX (2013) explains that conflict should not always be viewed negatively but rather as an opportunity for growth, learning, and development when handled properly.
In the school setting, conflicts are very common. Students may experience disagreements with classmates, teachers may encounter conflicts with colleagues, and even non-teaching personnel may face misunderstandings in their workplace. As Johnson and Johnson (2018) emphasized, schools are social environments where interaction is constant, making conflict inevitable but also manageable through effective communication and cooperation skills.
As De Dreu and Gelfand (2016) explained, effective conflict management requires individuals to develop both emotional and cognitive skills to handle disagreements productively. Similarly, Rahim (2017) emphasized that individuals who possess strong conflict management skills are more likely to resolve disputes in a way that benefits all parties involved.
Furthermore, peer mediation encourages individuals to take responsibility for resolving their own conflicts with the guidance of trained peers. According to Koutkou and Paschaloudis (2025), peer mediation promotes a culture of dialogue, cooperation, and mutual respect, which is essential in educational institutions. It also helps in developing critical social skills that are necessary for both personal and professional growth.
As Ramani and Zhimin (2010) stated, conflict is an ongoing process that may not always have a complete resolution. This highlights the importance of equipping teachers with the necessary skills to manage conflict effectively. Similarly, Arop, Owan, and Ekpang (2018) emphasized that conflict management strategies help reduce the negative effects of conflict and improve organizational performance.
https://zenodo.org/records/22225324