<![CDATA[Conflict among inmates is a persistent problem in correctional institutions, which are closed social systems marked by overcrowding, intense interaction, and group formation based on ethnic identity. Conflict handling in these institutions tends to be administrative and situational, while local wisdom has not been systematically integrated. This article aims to review the literature on conflict resolution theory and the Dalihan Na Tolu concept as a conceptual basis for resolving conflicts among inmates. The study uses a qualitative library research method by examining journal articles, books, and institutional documents, including ten previous studies that were compared in terms of method, findings, and context. The review shows that Dalihan Na Tolu, with its principles of somba marhula-hula, manat mardongan tubu, and elek marboru, has been widely studied as a kinship system and a culture-based conflict resolution mechanism in Batak society, in family, religious, and community settings. Galtung's peacemaking, peacekeeping, and peacebuilding dimensions provide an analytical framework to read these values as parts of conflict resolution. However, studies that examine Dalihan Na Tolu in a correctional setting remain scarce. This article therefore proposes a conceptual framework that links Dalihan Na Tolu values to Galtung's three dimensions as a basis for further empirical research in correctional institutions. The framework is conceptual and has not been tested empirically.]]>
Copyrights © 2026
