Criminality- Modifying behaviour: Restorative justice

Question 1

What is restorative justice?

Answer 1

Involves communication between offender and victim via letters, video or in person. This aims to rehabilitate offenders so they do not reoffend.

Question 2

What is atonement for wrongdoing?

Answer 2

Offenders may offer compensation for the crime (money/unpaid community service) and showing guilt.

Question 3

Why can restorative justice be good for a victim?

Answer 3

Can reduce their sense of victimisation as they’re no longer voiceless.
Victim can gain understanding of offenders point of view.

Question 4

How effective is restorative justice from victims pov?

Answer 4

85% satisfaction from face-to-face meetings with offenders.
Victims also claim greater sense of satisfaction than when cases go through mainstream court.

Question 5

Effectiveness in reducing offending?

Answer 5

Sherman & Strang (2007) found reduced offending rates when restorative justice has occurred.
UK restorative justice council (2015) report only 37% reoffend.

Question 6

What are the ethical implications of restorative justice on behalf of the offender and victim?

Answer 6

Offender- victims can “gang up” on offender.
May get shamed.

Victim- Feels worse afterwards (psychological harm)
Loss of self-esteem
May feel taken advantage of
Embarrassed