Models of conflict, negotiation and third party intervention: A review and synthesis

From the vast research literature on organizational conflict and conflict resolution, this review identifies 44 major models in the area of conflict, negotiation, and third party processes (e.g. mediation and arbitration). Each of the models is described, categorized as descriptive or normative, and evaluated with respect to empirical support. Discussion of these models surfaces a number of significant, but often implicit assumptions about conflict and its management; insufficient bridging between descriptive and normative endeavors; and an extreme emphasis on model creation over model testing.