What is the meaning of "restorative justice" in the corrections context?

In the context of corrections, "restorative justice" refers to an approach that emphasizes repairing the harm caused by criminal behavior rather than solely punishing the offender. This approach seeks to involve all stakeholders, including the victims, offenders, and the community, in the process of addressing the impact of the crime and finding a resolution that promotes healing and understanding.

Restorative justice initiatives often include facilitated dialogues between victims and offenders, community service, and other reparative actions. The ultimate goal is to restore relationships and community cohesion while allowing offenders to take responsibility for their actions and make amends. This methodology contrasts with more traditional punitive measures, which focus primarily on consequences rather than on reconciliation and healing.

The distinction between restorative justice and methods that emphasize punishment or increased security is crucial, as restorative justice aims to foster a rehabilitative and supportive environment for all parties involved.