What role does a conflict mediator play in a team?

A conflict mediator plays a crucial role in helping teams navigate disagreements or disputes effectively. By facilitating resolutions to conflicts, the mediator creates an environment where open communication can occur. They assist team members in articulating their perspectives, understanding each other's viewpoints, and identifying common goals. This process encourages collaboration and fosters a sense of unity within the team. The mediator does not only help manage the immediate conflict but also empowers team members to develop skills that can prevent future disputes, thereby promoting a healthier team dynamic.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of a conflict mediator’s role. Encouraging discord and competition undermines teamwork and can escalate conflicts. Avoiding participation in discussions would leave conflicts unresolved, further damaging team relations. Taking charge of all decisions contradicts the mediator's purpose, which is to guide discussions rather than dominate them, enabling a more equitable approach to conflict resolution.