Mission – Vision – Values

Mission

It is the mission of CSI to improve the quality of life for Legal Professionals, clients, parents, children, and future generations, by understanding conflict at a science-informed root level, developing, and promoting functional conflict management techniques.

Vision

It is the vision of The Conflict Science Institute to apply the most scientifically reliable sources of attachment and interpersonal neurobiology, towards the development of optimal conflict management models; and to share these practices with conflict resolution professionals through the facilitation of world-wide dialogue regarding the nature of conflict.

Values

Beliefs

There is no one best conflict resolution method. Litigation, mediation, collaborative law, and other dispute resolution mechanisms are all potentially appropriate or necessary methods. Facilitating communication between parties and promoting improved communication skills for clients can also be effective ways to address conflict.

Conflict typically invokes fear, and fear can impact information processing and decision making. Attachment science and theory offer the best perspective on understanding fear-based thinking, behavior, feeling, and memory function.

The most ethical and effective approach is a client-centered approach (or people-centered), meaning that professionals can trust people to know what they need when they feel safe. A counselor’s primary role is to provide education and protection from danger to help clients optimize their decision making.

The legal system can make judgments, but should not be judgmental. Judgments should support party autonomy as much as possible, while providing ample protection from relevant dangers.

Human communication can be a challenge in conflict situations. Having understanding of and acceptance for oneself is an important part of communicating with others.

Science is ever changing. We rely on the best science available, utilize multiple information channels, and stay open-minded and eager to receive new insights and possibilities from developing science. 

Science, theory, and art are always intermingled. Science cannot exist without theory, and the art of imagination. All should be examined critically, with credit given to supportive scientific measures.