Dealing With Offending Behaviour: Restorative Justice

Question 1

What is meant by restorative justice?

Answer 1

A process which focuses on the rehabilitation of the offender through reconciliation of the offender and the victim.

Question 2

What is the aim of restorative justice?

Answer 2

To gain the victims perspective, atonement for wrongdoing and rehabilitation.

Question 3

What is the main strength of restorative justice? And very important to mention in exams?

Answer 3

It is an active process rather than passive.

Question 4

Outline restorative justice.

Answer 4

-It is voluntary.
-Offender accepts responsibility.
-Opportunity to gain view point of victim + impact of crime.

Question 5

In restorative justice, what are peace circles?

Answer 5

Individuals sit in circle and speak about their experiences - offers support to victim.
Example of full restoration.

Question 6

Why is restorative justice important?

Answer 6

There is a switch from the state’s needs to the victim’s needs.

Question 7

What are 2 strengths of restorative justice?

Answer 7

1. Decrease in recidivism.
   Strang et al: found a group of offenders who experienced restorative justice were significantly less likely to reoffend than control.
   Shows RJ gives insight to victims feelings + experiences + makes offenders guilty + be responsible.
   Positive impacts.
2. Positive outcomes.
   RJ Council: 7 year project which found RJ made 60% of victims feel better abt event + 85% feel satisfied.
   Shows RJ allows victim to move on.
   Victims can return to normality.

Question 8

What is one weakness of restorative justice?

Answer 8

1. Offenders may abuse system.
   Some may take participate to avoid punishment, downplay their crime or take pride in it.
   Shows wrong intentions can lead to more distress for victim.
   May not work with all offenders.