Is restorative justice appropriate for sexual assault and domestic violence? A systematic review and meta-analysis of the “empirical vacuum”

Abstract

Objectives: Restorative justice (RJ) is a victim-centered approach to addressing injustice, providing those harmed with empowerment and restitution. Yet, the application of RJ to sexual assault (SA) or domestic violence (DV) cases is rare and contentious. Method: In a broad systematic review yielding 12,461 candidate reports, we identified four eligible studies relayed through five reports (N = 692 participants). Results: Findings from a meta-analysis of 12 effects reported across four studies indicated a small but significant and favorable effect on offender recidivism (g = 0.26, 95% CI [0.09, 0.43]), which became non-significant when limiting the sample to randomized control trials. Although RJ is designed to be victim-centered, no eligible studies reported quantitative victim well-being outcomes. Conclusions: Results identified potentially favorable effects of RJ in SA/DV cases; thus, implementation appears to be acceptable. However, before widespread rollout is recommended, more research is needed, especially as RJ affects victims of SA/DV.