Read Theory in Action  Restorative Justice (pp. 183-184) Watch University of Minnesota Duluths Center for Restorative J

1. Read Theory in Action  Restorative Justice (pp. 183-184)
2. Watch University of Minnesota Duluths Center for Restorative Justice and Peacemakings presentation on Empathy ()
3. Visit the Center for Justice & Reconciliation ()
   • From the top of the webpage, click on the RESTORATIVE JUSTICE link and read ABOUT RESTORATIVE JUSTICE
   • From the top of the webpage, click on the RESTORATIVE JUSTICE link and read 
   • From the RJ IN THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM PAGE, select one topic to explore further, e.g., Criminal Codes, Law Enforcement, Courts, Prisons, Victim Support and Restorative Justice or Working Respectfully with Victims, and review all related links, etc. associated with the chosen subject.

Answer the following questions:

• What was the subject of the RJ topic that you selected and how is empathy connected/related?
• Do you believe that you could be more empathetic and how might that improve your ability to be a criminal justice professional or person generally? Explain.
• In your estimation, why is the selected RJ approach important for improving either the system or the administration of justice within our modern society and criminal justice system? Explain.

Key Terms/Concepts

Labeling – the labeling perspective focuses on how a person’s self-concept may cause him or her to engage in crime.

Restorative Justice – Restorative Justice must promote the dignity of victims and offenders, and ensure that there is no domination or discrimination. All parties must be provided with complete information as to the purpose of the process, their rights within the process and the possible outcomes of the process.

Social Bond – Social bonding theory is a control theory built upon the assumption that people are inherently self-interested; therefore, it seeks to explain why some people refrain from crime rather than engage in crime.

Symbolic Interactionism – Symbolic interaction is one of the several theories in the social sciences. According to this theory, people live both in the natural and the symbolic environment. Symbolic interaction is a process that is enlivened the reciprocal meaning and values by aid of the symbols in the mind.