Justice and education hand in hand? The impact of restorative justice on education

Abstract

Restorative Justice is a legal and penal model aimed at resolving conflicts arising from crimes in a collaborative manner, promoting the active participation of all involved parties. In the school context, it emerges as an alternative for shaping autonomous individuals, equipping them to take responsibility for their actions. By fostering otherness, Restorative Justice aids in the development of individuals who not only acknowledge their mistakes but also possess the ability to repair the harm caused. Within this context, the present study aims to analyze the impacts of Restorative Justice on educational environments. To achieve this, a qualitative narrative literature review was conducted using major national databases. The bibliographic review indicated that the implementation of Restorative Justice in schools holds significant potential to improve the educational environment by promoting dialogue and conflict mediation practices. The data review further revealed that while restorative approaches can be challenging, they contribute to building healthier and more respectful relationships among members of the school community. Additionally, the practice has already shown a reduction in violence and punitive behavior, encouraging a school culture that values mutual understanding and cooperation.