THE READINESS OF SINGAPOREAN CHINESE COUPLES FOR DIVORCE MEDIATION

Abstract

This study is an attempt to develop a psychological profile that would determine the readiness of Singaporean Chinese Couples for Divorce Mediation. It is in response to a lack of literature on this particular aspect of Mediation in Singapore. An assessment instrument, the Divorce Mediation Assessment Instrument was adapted to the local context and used in the study. Due to the time limitations and attrition in survey respondents, a total of 25 people completed the survey within a period of 3 months.

They were then assessed on 6 dimensions as indicated in the DMAI, namely, commitment to the mediation process, social-psychological readiness to mediate, understanding of the mediation process, possession of skills required for mediation, values appropriate to the mediation process and the level ·of conflict between the spouses. Reliability studies later indicate that several questions need to be dropped to improve sub-scale reliability. An analysis of gender differences of the remaining 49 items was then conducted using t-tests.

The results reveal a basic profile of the typical Chinese person who undergoes Divorce Mediation at the Family Court. S/he tends to be in the 30s' and has an average of 10 years of marriage. The most common occupation appears to be within Sales line and the most common salary range in between $1000 - $2000. S/he also tends to have a secondary education and would have children.

The survey respondents also have a good working knowledge of the mediation process and in general possess the necessary skills for mediation. Commitment to the mediation process is ambivalent though there is great concern over the future and welfare of their children from both spouses. Trust in their spouse is however low in many cases and this is something which the mediator needs to work on during the mediation process. Financial issues are also a matter of concern to the female clients. In addition, the level of conflict between the survey respondents and their clients do not appear to be too serious in general, and this may be a good indication that most of the conflict can be resolved, leading to a successful mediation outcome.

Discussions of the limitations of the study are also included as well as recommendations for future directions in research with regards to mediation m Singapore.