Journal of Psychology & Psychotherapy
Open Access

Mediating effect of restorative justice processes in criminal cases utilizing conflict management strategies to enhance sustainable outcomes for victims and perpetrators

Joint Event on 3^rd International Conference on Forensic Psychology & Criminology & 3^rd International Congress on Addictive Behavior and Dual Diagnosis

August 16-17, 2018 | Stockholm, Sweden

Buddy C Thornton

Grand Canyon University College of Doctoral Studies, USA

Posters & Accepted Abstracts: J Psychol Psychother

Abstract :

Restorative justice processes have emerged as an effective tool in family and juvenile court environments, but research is lacking on whether the process has merit in non-capital offense criminal court cases. Synthesizing an aligned process that concurrently protects the public while giving substantial consideration for how the victim emerges from the adjudication process should be a primary focus of justice up to this point, victims�?? rights and needs have taken a back seat to how courts approach convicted perpetrators. Exploring the benefits mediation and restorative justice processes afford victims after the fact, project lower rates of recidivism for perpetrators, and create social and economic benefits for the public offers pathways to enhancing the criminal legal process overall. Humanizing victims emerges as the primary overlooked factor restorative justice enhances when courts include controlled victim-perpetrator interaction. In violent contexts, online dispute resolution platforms allow victims respite from the fear associated with direct interaction while healing moves forward. Pros and cons of restorative justice processes are discussed at length with suggested action potential for expansion from current levels of utilization. Future research is suggested aligned with a broad continuum of potential criminal contexts.

Biography :