Department of Conflict Resolution Studies Theses and Dissertations

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Date of Award

2025

Document Type

Dissertation - NSU Access Only

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy

Department

Halmos College of Arts and Sciences - Department of Conflict Resolution Studies

First Advisor

Alexia Georgakopoulos

Second Advisor

Toran Hansen

Third Advisor

Judith McKay

Fourth Advisor

Terry Savage

Keywords

alternative dispute dresolution, arbitration, business, coaching, conflict resolution, conflict resolution entrepreneurship, cross-disciplinary collaboration, diversity and inclusion, entrepreneurs, facilitation, gender, general systems theory, global systems interpretive framework, mediation, narrative inquiry, narratives, negotiation, positive social change, professional development, qualitative research, reflexive thematic analysis, successful, successful conflict resolution entrepreneurs, technology in ADR, thematic analysis

Abstract

This study aims to improve the understanding of what surrounds successful conflict resolution entrepreneurs, as this topic remains underexplored despite their growing impact in shaping Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) practices and businesses. This is crucial for fostering innovation, enhancing professional development, and advancing the field. The research questions encompassed analyzing narratives, developing themes, and determining how the participants perceive success. This qualitative study analyzed existing interviews of forty-three (43) worldwide successful conflict resolution entrepreneurs using narrative research and reflexive thematic analysis framed by narrative inquiry and general systems theory. The analysis was based on the researcher’s subjective interpretations and inferences of the participants’ voices. Adopting a holistic perspective, the study explored the interconnected nature of the conflict resolution field, including mediation, arbitration, negotiation, facilitation, and coaching. The analysis involved the application of dual coding: manual and automated. The research identified eighteen (18) key themes, structured within eight (8) overarching themes, and broken down into several subthemes. The researcher kept reflective memos throughout the study. The integration of the study’s findings, the theoretical framework, and the literature led to the development of Lessons from Successful Conflict Resolution Entrepreneurs: A Global Systems Interpretive Framework. The lessons provide valuable implications for positive social change by improving the understanding of emerging and established conflict resolution entrepreneurs regarding successful conflict resolution entrepreneurship. The study recommends further exploration of technological advancements in ADR, cross-disciplinary collaboration, underrepresented regions or cultures, gender, diversity and inclusion, and psychological dimensions of conflict resolution entrepreneurship.

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