Neuroscience and Conflict Seminar Description

The 6-hour program looks at conflict and the process of conflict resolution through the lens of neuroscience. What does the brain do when it is in a conflict? What does neuroscience have to tell us about how to facilitate conflict resolution? What lessons does the brain have for preventing future conflict?

Including the latest in the field of neuroscience, the seminar will be cutting edge. It also will be practical, giving attendees tools they can immediately use in the practice of conflict resolution. The focus is on conflict resolution through negotiation and mediation and will be useful not only to lawyers and mediators, but also to therapists, educators, and business people — to anyone looking for better ways to handle conflict.

Topics will include:

• The brain's need for structure in the conflict resolution process
• Accidental brains versus brains on purpose: How the brain uses attention and intention
• The amygdala (reactive brain) and the frontal cortex (reflective brain): The role of each in conflict and decision-making
• Mirror neurons in the dispute: How people affect each other's mirror neurons
• The critical role of purpose — In the brain, and between participants in a dispute resolution, including the mediator or negotiators
• Stepping back: The essential key to harnessing the brain's power
• How do feelings impact the brain? The wise use of emotions, including anger
• Techniques for leading the brain to new dispute resolution skill levels, both for parties and those facilitating the resolution

Presenters are lawyer and long-time mediator Stephanie West Allen, JD, and researcher and world-renowned neuroscientist Jeffrey M. Schwartz, MD.