| dc.description.abstract | Contemporary research in therapy, communication studies and alternative dispute resolution has found that narrative is powerful and can be used to understand and mediate conflict (Clair et al, 2014; Collins & Clark, 1991; Fisher, 1984; 1985; 1989; Gergen &Gergen, 2006; Leung, 2009; Shen, Ahern & Baker, 2014; Winslade & Monk, 2000). Though conversion experiences are often focal points in narrative, little scholarship has been dedicated to studying the phenomenon of conversion, particularly conversion narratives, in relation to interpersonal conflict. Using interdisciplinary conversion studies, contemporary, Western conversion narratives and specific conflict examples, this thesis will define conversion, show its relationship to external conflict and will propose an integrated approach to conflict resolution methods, specifically to narrative mediation, that better addresses the sources of interpersonal conflict. | en |
