Which approach is best for managing conflicts among campers?

Encouraging open communication and mediation is the best approach for managing conflicts among campers because it fosters an environment of understanding and collaboration. When campers are given the opportunity to express their thoughts and feelings in a safe space, it promotes trust and opens pathways to resolution. Through mediation, a counselor can facilitate a dialogue between the parties involved, allowing them to discuss their perspectives and work toward a mutually agreeable solution. This not only resolves the immediate conflict but also helps campers develop crucial social skills such as empathy, active listening, and conflict resolution, which are valuable both in and out of camp settings. By prioritizing open communication, campers learn to navigate their differences constructively rather than resorting to negative behaviors or feelings.