P133. Voices from Within: Analyzing Inmate Perspectives on Restorative Justice Processes During Custody

• In Event: Poster Session & Ice Cream Social

Abstract

Restorative justice (RJ) is a way of doing justice following an offense that is oriented towards repairing individual, relational, and social harm. Despite indications of their contribution to rehabilitation, RJ is still used infrequently, especially in serious offences. We believe implementing them in prison is likely to provide access to RJ to a wider population. Twenty-three adult correctional-clients were interviewed about their attitudes toward participation in RJ while in custody. Specifically, the study examined facilitators and barriers affecting their willingness to participate. The facilitators found included (1) Desire to seek forgiveness; (2) Expressing respect for the victim; (3) Reciprocity – the correctional client as victim; and (4) Desire to renew relationships. The barriers identified were (1) Fear of the victims’ reactions; (2) Disbelief in the victim’s ability to forgive; and (3) Unwillingness to include their supporters. These facilitators and barriers are discussed with a view to implementing RJ in prisons.

Authors

• Inbal Peleg Koriat, Yezreel Valley College

• Dana Weimann Saks, Yezreel Valley College