The role of (self-)forgiveness in restorative justice: Linking restorative justice to desistance

Abstract

The role of forgiveness in restorative justice (RJ) remains peripheral because interpersonal forgiveness has been considered a ‘gift’ that should not be forced on victims in RJ. In this article, we aim to advance the role of forgiveness in RJ. However, we do not focus on interpersonal forgiveness. We instead focus on another dimension of forgiveness: self-forgiveness for offenders. Because self-forgiveness is linked with both RJ and desistance, self-forgiveness has the potential to function as a catalyst to connect RJ with desistance. Drawing on their relationship, we offer a process-based model of how offenders may or may not desist through RJ. We conclude by offering implications for research on RJ.

Apology–forgiveness cycle in restorative justice, but how?

“…'I'm sorry') was offered in one-third of RJ cases, and 'full' apologies that involve '(1) admitting responsibility for the behaviour and outcomes, (2) acknowledging the harm done and that it was wrong, (3) expressing regret or remorse for the harm done, (4) offering to repair the harm or make amends, and (5) promising not to repeat the behaviour in the future and to work toward good relations' were provided in approximately one-fifth of cases (Dhami, 2012: 47). Similarly, Suzuki and Jenkins (2020) found in their recent review of the literature that forgiveness might be present in 30-80 per cent of RJ cases. Thus, there is a strong likelihood that the apology-forgiveness cycle may take place in the RJ processes.…”

“…This scarcity may be related to concerns over the perceived roles of apology and forgiveness in RJ (c.f. Suzuki and Jenkins, 2020). As a result of victimisation, victims have various needs including participation, vindication, validation, restoration, accountability, and so on (Bolitho, 2015;Daly, 2017;Pemberton and Vanfraechem, 2015).…”

How Does Restorative Justice Work? A Qualitative Metasynthesis

“…Yet, except for Rossner’s (2011) work, little is known about the interactional dynamics of RJ (Vanfraechem & Aertsen, 2010). The scope of the existing RJ literature tends to be limited to either individuals who committed a crime or victims (c.f., Suzuki & Jenkins, 2020). These approaches might have led to a lack of focus on the dynamic effects of each RJ case.…”

Efektivitas Forgiveness Therapy untuk Memperbaiki Tingkat Self-Acceptance pada Wanita Penderita Kanker Payudara: Literature Review

“…Pengampunan diri atau self forgiveness juga digambarkan sebagai proses 'day to day' dan 'ongoing journey' dari refleksi diri dan penerimaan diri di mana individu harus terus 'revisit' gagasan mereka mengenai nilai pribadi sehubungan dengan tindak kesalahan mereka. Pengampunan diri juga merupakan proses berurutan karena beberapa individu bersikeras bahwa mereka harus berhenti melakukan kesalahan dan memiliki sesuatu yang untuk masyarakat sebelum memaafkan diri mereka sendiri (Suzuki & Jenkins, 2022). Seseorang yang memutuskan untuk melakukan terapi pemaafan harus memahami bahwa prosesnya tidak akan cepat atau mudah.…”