Promoting Optimal Adolescent Development through Conflict Resolution Education, braining, and Practice

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to examine how the problem-solving approach taken by the emerging field of youth-oriented conflict resolution is developmentally appropriate for a full range of adolescents and thereby promotes optimal development. The application of conflict resolution modalities to adolescents is conceptualized within an educational/developmental, preventive, and remedial framework that provides the context for reviewing the positive effects of conflict resolution on adolescents. A comprehensive approach to the use of conflict resolution modalities with adolescents as a basis for promoting optimal development is proposed, with attention given to the issues of culture and diversity. The potential interface between the fields of counseling and conflict resolution and the role that counseling psychologists can play in the development of this emerging field is discussed.