What does restorative justice aim to achieve?

Restorative justice focuses on repairing harm caused by criminal behavior and seeks to involve both victims and offenders in the process. This approach emphasizes healing and reconciliation rather than mere punishment. It aims to address the needs of the victims by allowing them to express how the crime has affected them, while also encouraging offenders to take responsibility for their actions and understand the impact of their behavior on others. The ultimate goal is to foster a sense of accountability and to promote healing for all parties involved, which distinguishes restorative justice from traditional punitive systems.

In contrast, the other options prioritize punishment or control over healing and rehabilitation. For instance, emphasizing punishment or increased incarceration does not focus on the needs of victims or overall community restoration, and establishing strict boundaries for inmate behavior is more about maintaining order than addressing the underlying harm caused by offenses. Thus, the correct choice reflects the core principles of restorative justice, which are centered on repairing relationships and fostering understanding between offenders and victims.