What is "restorative justice"?

Restorative justice is fundamentally an approach that aims to address and repair the harm caused by criminal behavior through a process of reconciliation between victims and offenders. This method emphasizes healing and restoration rather than mere punishment. The goal is to involve all stakeholders in a way that acknowledges the impact of the crime, fosters understanding between those affected, and encourages offenders to take responsibility for their actions. By focusing on the needs of victims, the accountability of offenders, and the well-being of the community, restorative justice seeks to create a more positive outcome than traditional methods which often center predominantly on punishment and retribution.

The other options do not capture the holistic and inclusive nature of restorative justice. A punishment-focused approach strictly emphasizes penalties without addressing the underlying issues or the needs and perspectives of victims. While methods of rehabilitation may be involved in criminal justice systems, restorative justice specifically includes the victim's voice and seeks to heal relationships, rather than focusing solely on the offender's rehabilitation. Lastly, while restorative justice can serve as an alternative to incarceration in some cases, it is not limited to that aspect, as its core principles extend beyond just serving as an alternative to punitive measures.