NCJ Number
192176
Journal
Youth and Society Volume: 33 Issue: 2 Dated: December 2001 Pages: 314-328
Date Published
December 2001
Length
15 pages
Annotation
This article explores some paths that might be worthwhile to examine in bringing together restorative justice and juvenile drug treatment, based on the authors’ perspectives as members of the restorative justice community.
Abstract
The previous articles in this journal have begun a dialogue between two areas, restorative justice and adolescent drug treatment, that have developed quite separately. This dialogue is just beginning; many paths and fault lines require attention. The first step along the path requires clarity about the basic concept of restorative justice. This basic concept involves the identification and reparation of harms experienced by victims; an obligation on the part of offenders to repair the harms; and a process involving victims, offenders, and communities in making the decisions. Paths that might benefit from further exploration include concepts of harms, causes, and obligations; offenders as victims; shame and vindication; and the fundamental and guiding questions of restorative justice. Co-optation and victim exclusion are among the potential problems that need attention. Ways to stay true to the restorative justice vision should include attention to values and evaluation, revisioning the role of the expert, and use of the language of respect. 11 references (Author abstract modified)