Journal of the International Ombuds Association (JIOA)

JIOA 2024 Articles

IOA Journal Volume 17, Issue 1 (2024)

Book Review: Conflict Coaching Fundamentals: Working with Conflict Stories

LAURA UMPHREY

June 2024

Abstract: 
Often people adopt conflict narratives that can hijack their ability to work through conflict in a productive and constructive way. This review provides a summary of the melodramatic and tragedy conflict narratives that are the foundation of the book. In addition to describing these two narrative types, techniques and strategies for breaking free from the unproductive melodramatic conflict narrative in favor of the more productive tragedy narrative are presented using the REALConflict Coaching System developed by the author. Overall, this is a useful book for professional Ombuds to help visitors regain some degree of empowerment over workplace conflict.

Book Review: Speaking Up in a Culture of Silence: Changing the Organization from Bullying and Incivility to One of Listening and Productivity

BELINDA M. ROBINSON

June 2024

Abstract:
Do you know when to speak up and when to listen? A big challenge for many individuals is making the decision to speak up or deciding to sit silently as a bystander during meetings where tempers often run rampant. What is involved in your decision-making process when brainstorming sessions go awry and opinions differ in high-stress, decision-making moments? Did you miss the non-verbal clues that are significant in reducing conflict and stress? This book provides readers with a series of case studies that describe the processes employees used to navigate speaking up in a culture of silence during times when listening and productivity were low while bullying and incivility increased. Through changing how one responds, listens, and reacts employees and management can steer clear of the triggers that may enable conflict to thrive to create an environment where individuals feel heard and welcome to speak up.

Beyond Problems: The What, Why, and How of Positive Psychology for Organizational Ombuds

JULIE MUROFF

June 2024

Abstract:
This paper proposes the strategic integration of positive psychology research and interventions into the work of organizational ombuds. The purpose of that integration is to advance the well being of ombuds, our visitors and organizations, and our field. The paper will review the what, why, and how of positive psychology, emphasizing that when to integrate positive psychology into ombuds work is now.

The Art of Intercultural Communication for Ombuds to Manage Conflict

CHARLES LIU

May 2024

Abstract:

The book Conflict Management and Intercultural Communication: The Art of Intercultural Harmony begins with a sober reminder that managing conflict and communication is hard work. This is especially true as the world becomes more complex, where authentic dialogue is needed to cultivate harmony in the spaces where people operate to resolve conflicts across [intercultural] differences. As the world continues to become more complex, the authors of this book argue that intercultural communication is one fundamental approach to resolving conflict in the interdependent, globalized world in which we live. I provide a critical overview of the book and key takeaways that Ombuds can use to manage conflict in the workplace.

Striving to Effectively Communicate Ombuds Value: Lessons Learned by an Ombuds Working with Data 

LISA C. YAMAGATA-LYNCH

May 2024

Abstract:

The goal of this article is to share lessons learned by the author as an organizational ombuds working with data while striving to effectively communicate the value of ombuds work. The article begins with a presentation of how the author transitioned from a faculty researcher to an ombuds working with data with the goal to demystify ombuds work and create opportunities for visitor voices to be heard. This discussion includes both quantitative and qualitative data. The author shares strategies implemented, and decisions made as an ombuds to operationalize data collection, analysis, and reporting. The article ends with final thoughts for organizational ombuds to consider while reflecting on their professional practice with data

The Center Will Hold: An Overview of Circle Processes and Their Potential Use in Academic Medicine and Other Organizations
NATALIE C. FLEURY

April 2024

Abstract: 

The use of circles to nurture trust relationships is a practice see in many Indigenous cultures (Kaminski, 2011). Recently, circle processes have been used in neighborhoods, schools, workplaces, justice systems, and other settings to address a variety of issues. Effective circle processes create a safe space where everyone is respected and each participant has the opportunity to speak. A well-executed circle creates a receptacle that can hold strong emotions, encourages vulnerability and sharing, and creates a sense of connection and shared purpose. This article focuses on adapting circles to address workplace issues in academic medical institutions. The article introduces the stages of a circle process, the general structure of circle processes, and important circle guidelines followed by an overview of five different models for circle processes. Application of these process are illustrated using a scenario and exploring how each process might be used to address issues arising from the scenario.

Book Review: The Ethics of Interpersonal Relationships
SCOTT TAYLOR
February 2024

Abstract:

Firestone and Catlett’s The Ethics of Interpersonal Relationships (2009) presents a deep dive into how an individual’s negative behavior is seated in early childhood trauma. Built on Firestone’s Separation Theory, the book presents multiple examples of an individual’s childhood influencing their decision-making capabilities as adults. In addition, the book delves into the concepts of effective leadership, power, and what makes an ethical state. This book review provides an overview of each section and their associated chapters and concludes with some commentary showing implications for practicing ombuds.

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About the JIOA

The Journal of the International Ombuds Association (JIOA) is a peer-reviewed online journal for scholarly articles and information relevant to the ombudsman profession. As members of a relatively new profession, we continually strive to understand, define and clarify the role and function of the professional organizational ombuds.

The JIOA will help foster recognition that what we do for our agencies, corporations, colleges, and universities is worthy of study. While we must vigorously protect the confidentiality of our interactions, we can still study and be studied to understand what we do and how we do it; what works well and what doesn't work; what our options are; how social, technical and legal changes may impact us; what the profile and career development of ombudsman professionals might be, and other matters of interest.

The JIOA can facilitate a greater interest in ombudsing, enhance our professional standing, and serve to give us a better understanding of our dynamic roles and the impact on our institutions and agencies. The Journal also will allow IOA members, other ombuds, and other professionals to reach out to their colleagues with their ideas, research findings, theories, and recommendations for best practices and to engage in ongoing discussions of critical issues.

Learn more about the JIOA and the manuscript submission process.

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If you have any questions about the JIOA please contact the co-editors via email at [email protected].

• Shannon Lynn Burton, Michigan State University

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