California Correctional Lieutenant Practice Exam

How does community impact relate to the restorative justice model?

1. It focuses solely on punishing offenders

2. It aims to exclude victims from the justice process

3. It encourages engagement and healing among community members

4. It disregards the concerns of the wider society

The correct answer is: It encourages engagement and healing among community members

The connection between community impact and the restorative justice model is best illustrated by the aim of encouraging engagement and healing among community members. Restorative justice emphasizes repairing harm caused by criminal behavior through inclusive processes that involve the victim, the offender, and the community. In this context, the community plays a vital role in the healing process, fostering a supportive environment that addresses the needs of all parties involved. This approach promotes collective accountability and empowers community members to participate in resolving the harm, ultimately leading to stronger community ties and a deeper understanding of the conflict. The focus on healing and engagement aligns with the overarching goal of restorative justice, which is to restore relationships and social balance rather than simply imposing punishment. This model reflects a holistic understanding of crime that considers not only the act and its consequences but also the community’s role in the process of restoration and reconciliation.