Inside Looking Out: An Observation on Restorative Justice Practices within Illinois Juvenile Prisons

This study examines restorative justice practices within Illinois juvenile prisons, focusing on their implementation, challenges, and impact on incarcerated youth. Grounded in criminology and justice studies, the research employs an observational and qualitative approach to explore how restorative justice frameworks function in environments historically shaped by punitive models of discipline. By centering the lived experiences of incarcerated juveniles, correctional staff, and facilitators, the study highlights the potential of restorative practices to transform carceral spaces into sites of healing, accountability, and rehabilitation. Findings reveal that while restorative justice initiatives hold promise for reducing recidivism, improving conflict resolution, and fostering emotional growth, their effectiveness is limited by structural barriers. These barriers include inconsistent institutional support, lack of training for staff, and the tension between restorative ideals and punitive correctional policies. Nevertheless, moments of success—such as increased empathy, improved peer relationships, and strengthened community ties—demonstrate the capacity of restorative practices to address harms in ways that traditional punitive models cannot. The study underscores the importance of culturally responsive approaches that consider the racial, socioeconomic, and developmental contexts of incarcerated youth. It further emphasizes the need for systemic change in policy and practice, advocating for restorative justice not as a supplemental program but as a foundational framework within juvenile justice systems. Ultimately, this research contributes to the growing body of evidence supporting restorative justice as a viable alternative to punitive incarceration. By observing its application within Illinois juvenile prisons, the study provides critical insights for policymakers, educators, practitioners, and community stakeholders committed to building a more equitable and transformative system of justice.

Author dc:creator

• Torey Cohen-Boseman (23291284)

• Justice
• Juvenile

Statement dc:rights

• In Copyright

DOI dc:identifier

https://doi.org/10.25417/uic.31452724.v1

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:figshare.com:article/31452724