A Meta-Analysis on the Effects of Restorative Practices on Disciplinary Outcomes in Schools

• In Event: Division H Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Session

Abstract

Research highlights that exclusionary forms of discipline are ineffective in addressing student behavior. To embrace a more equitable approach, schools are increasingly adopting Restorative Practices as an alternative to traditional discipline. This meta-analysis aimed to find to what extent Restorative Practices affect disciplinary outcomes (office referrals, suspensions, expulsions). After screening 121 articles, the researchers included three studies in the analysis. The researchers used Odds Ratio (OR) as the effect size estimate since the disciplinary outcomes were dichotomous. The results suggest that restorative practices had small to large effects (OR 0.73 - 0.07, p < .05) on disciplinary outcomes. Although the results were promising, practitioners should use caution when implementing restorative practices due to the variation in effect sizes and limited research.

Authors

• Katheryn Munguia, Chapman University

• Anaiza Valladolid, Chapman University