This study represents a critical examination of private sessions (caucuses), seen as a sub-process within the core family mediation process and defined as involving separate and confidential conversations between mediator(s) and each disputant during the main session. In the study, the views of family mediators were explored revealing that considerable support for the use of the tool was juxtaposed with a range of fundamental ethical concerns. Emerging from the study is strong evidence of

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... ve practice as an inherent component of caucusing thus posing a challenge to the positive benefits. Bio Don Bowen, PhD, MAASW, has a background in social work, family and community mediation, sociology research, and science. He teaches in the area of social welfare practice, with special interests in ethics and professional practice, counseling, and social policy.