Exploration of Factors Leading to Successful Mediation: A Regression Analysis of Reality TV Mediation Show Episodes in China

• In Event: ICA Plenary Interactive Paper/Poster Session II
  In Interactive Paper Session: Global Communication and Social Change Interactive Paper Session

Abstract

This study examines possible factors leading to successful mediation in Chinese mediation shows. The study applies modernization theory to explain the rise of mediation shows in China, and public’s overwhelming accolades for mediation than litigation. A content analysis of episodes of Gold Medal Mediation reveals significant findings on the mediator, the observer cohort and other factors in predicting successful mediation on the show. Ordinal regression is employed, and findings suggest that “secret talking” rather than transparency between disputants has significant influence on successful mediation. Additionally, “compromise of rights” by disputants is a key factor in solving disputes. Other surprising findings include the use of therapeutic activities and the neutral stance of the observer cohort. This quantitative study enhances the role of Chinese mediation shows in propagating mediation in contemporary Chinese society and supporting upheld morality values.
Keywords: mediation and litigation, reality television, China, regression, predictive factors

Authors

• Yafei Zhang, University of Iowa

• Li Chen, The University of Iowa