Communication, Conflict Resolution, and Incident Reporting

Communication and Conflict Resolution

During the course of any mentor-mentee relationship, there may be periods of time when communication becomes challenging, or when basic expectations for professionalism in the mentor-mentee relationship are not being met (BBSP Community Standards). In these instances, PHCO recommends that mentors and mentees consider the outline of possible actions below, recognizing that every situation is unique and may require its own solution.

1. Contact the thesis committee chair, the student services manager, the DGS, and/or Dr. Laura Hawkins (Director of Learning and Work Environment for BBSP), to discuss the challenge.
2. Reflect on the style of communication that characterizes the mentor-mentee relationship. The book called “Crucial Conversations” can provide a useful template for advice in situations when communication has become challenging. The office of the PHCO SSM has copies of “Crucial Conversations” available for loan.
3. Reflect on the history of grades and feedback that the mentor has issued to the mentee through PHCO 994, and whether that history can provide guidance during the current challenge.
4. Schedule a thesis committee meeting.

Avenues for Reporting Professional Misconduct

If a student has experienced or witnessed any form of professional misconduct, there are several avenues for reporting and support that are available.

Internal to the Department

Students may wish to inform any one of the Department Administrative Team, including the Student Services Manager, the DGS, the T32 Director, the Department Chair, the Department Business Manager, or the Department HR representative.

External to the Department

The University Compliance Office is an outstanding source of support. The page below provides an overview and also outlines what sorts of different steps can be taken by the reporter after filing a report (see “how to make a report” tab):

https://eoc.unc.edu/what-we-do/address-misconduct/

The Ombuds Office offers an avenue for confidential and informal discussion. In their own words, the Ombuds office is a place “where you can speak openly, contemplate goals, and explore options, as you navigate a confusing, unusual, or challenging situation. If you aren’t sure what to do, talking with an independent and impartial ombuds can be a good next step.”

https://ombuds.unc.edu

BBSP itself has also implemented a web-based system for anonymous reporting:

https://bbsp.unc.edu/mistreatment-safety/

The DGS of GMB, Dr. Dan McKay, is PHCO’s designated external advisor, and can be contacted in situations when the reporter does not wish to  discuss an incident with the PHCO Administration.

Threat Assessment and Management

Reporting concerning behavior

UNC-Chapel Hill prioritizes campus safety by encouraging proactive participation in identifying and reporting concerning behavior to the Carolina Behavioral Assessment and Management Team, which employs an evidence-based approach to assess, manage and mitigate potential concerns while offering supportive resources to individuals and fostering a secure environment.

“If an interaction leaves you feeling concerned, worried, or fearful for your safety or the safety of others, it’s important to take it seriously.”