NCJ Number
209962
Journal
British Journal of Criminology Volume: 45 Issue: 3 Dated: May 2005 Pages: 373-394
Date Published
May 2005
Length
22 pages
Annotation
This article explores the use of shaming mechanisms, a form of restorative justice, with sexual offenders, particularly those who offend against children.
Abstract
The current focus of criminal justice policy has been on “what works.” However, when it comes to sexual offenses, particularly those against children, the traditional retributive form of justice does not seem to be working. Therefore, there is a need to reexamine and maybe redefine the current framework in respect to sexual offenses. This article examines the use of shaming mechanisms with child sex offenders. Shaming is defined as all social processes of expressing disapproval which have the intention or effect of invoking remorse in the person being shamed and/or condemnation by others who become aware of the shaming. The article is structured into four parts. Part 1 provides the theoretical framework by outlining the prominent features of restorative justice and of shaming practices in particular. Part 2 outlines examples of disintegrative shaming practices with sex offenders which exist in the United Kingdom and the United States. Part 3 considers examples of innovative reintegrative shaming practices with sex offenders in Canada and parts of the United States and explores how these could usefully be employed in the United Kingdom. Lastly, part 4 addresses some of the key concerns put forward by critics of restorative justice as applied to sexual offenses and those surrounding the implementation of shaming mechanisms in particular. It is argued that victims, offenders, families, and the overall community affected by child sexual abuse could gain significant benefits from the adoption of such an approach. References