An outcome evaluation of a restorative justice alternative to incarceration

The Synergy and Substance of Organizational and Community Change in the Response to Crime and Conflict: The Emergence and Potential of Restorative Justice

“…Although research on restorative justice practices is in its relative infancy, results thus far in criminal and juvenile justice settings are promising with regard to impact on offender empathy, victim satisfaction, and recidivism (for summaries, see Braithwaite, 2002;Sherman, 2003;Nugent et al, 2003;Bonta et al, 2002;Schneider, 1986;Butts and Snyder, 1991;Bazemore and Schiff, 2004).…”

The Impact of the Greene County Juvenile Justice VIP (Victim Impact Panel) on Offender Development of Remorse and Empathy

“…The literature on restorative justice theory and practice has consistently revealed a strong connection between the implementation of restorative justice programs that facilitate dialog, encourage reconciliation, mediate restitution, and enhance community reintegration, and the reduction of recidivism, particularly with regard to juvenile offenders (Bonta, Wallace-Capretta, Rooney, & McAnoy, 2002;Bradshaw & Roseborough, 2005;Latimer, Dowden, & Muise, 2005;Nugent, Williams, & Umbreit, 2004;Bergseth & Bouffard, 2007). Researchers note that the need to evaluate the connection between correctional practices such as VIPs and the development of an emotional response (remorse and empathy) in offenders that will affect behavior warrants further empirical examination (Rojek, Coverdill, & Fors, 2003).…”

Victims’ Experiences of Restorative Mediation: A Developmental Social Work Perspective

“…The greater part of investigations, including three meta-analyses, suggests that about a third (28-34%) of offenders recidivate following participation in restorative programmes; in experimental studies the majority of offenders were less likely to reoffend when compared to control groups (Bergseth & Bouffard, 2007;Bonta, Jesseman, Rugge & Cormier, 2006;Bonta et al, 2002;Bradshaw et al, 2006;Latimer et al, 2005;Rodriguez, 2007). In general, victims and offenders express high levels of satisfaction with the mediation process (Bonta et al, 2006;Bradshaw et al, 2006;McCold & Wachtel, 2000;Mutter & Dugmore, 2008;Umbreit & Fercello, 1997;Wemmers & Cyr, 2005).…”

“…However, these studies are often marred by small sample sizes, lack of representation of study populations, absence of experimental controls, and non-comparable definitions of recidivism. In addition, many studies focus on process measures, in particular experiences of fairness and restoration, without considering outcomes such as recidivism (Baffour, 2006;Bergseth & Bouffard, 2007;Bonta, Wallace-Capretta, Rooney & McAnoy, 2002;McCold & Wachtel, 2000). It is also important to keep in mind that results are influenced by self-selection bias, since programmes are voluntary and participants may be more motivated to ensure positive outcomes (Hudson, 2002;Latimer, Dowden & Muise, 2005).…”