More empathy can improve justice

Post #254

500 words; 2 minutes to read

Post and audio summary by Gillian Sherman

Summary: Steps to prompt more empathy towards people convicted of crimes can lead to better outcomes for everyone.

La version française suit par la bénévole Rachel Cauver

A master’s thesis conducted at Wilfrid Laurier University  summarized results from several studies examining how public attitudes toward people convicted of crimes can influence wellbeing and outcomes for these individuals. Empathy and compassion towards people convicted of crimes are key in the success of restorative justice procedures.

Attitudes toward people convicted of crimes were affected by several factors. It was easier for people to empathize where crimes were accidental or unintentional. Exercises (for example, a writing exercise) which prompt participants to write or think about the person convicted of the crime with compassion are linked to more empathy for those convicted of crime, and less support for harsh and punitive measures. 

The findings of this study and literature review suggest that the way members of the public think about a crime does have an impact on perceptions of those convicted of crimes, but the specific details may vary based on crime circumstances. 

This research is important for applications of criminal justice methods because attitudes toward people convicted of crimes lead people to support restorative justice procedures that benefit those convicted of crimes. 

Background

Research in the last 10 years suggests that those previously incarcerated for federal crimes have a significant likelihood (23% chance) of recidivism after release from prison (Correctional Services of Canada). Traditionally, Canadian justice methods are punitive and characterized by fines, probation, and  incarceration. In contrast, restorative methods of justice seek to reintegrate the perpetrator, victim, and community while attempting to repair harm done to victims and the community. Benefits of these initiatives include less punitive sentencing, rehabilitation of those convicted, and reduced recidivism.

How to Increase Compassion

Focusing on the capacity for growth and redeemability of a person involved in the criminal justice system is a strategy that increases compassion and support for restorative justice. In a process referred to as the Empathy-Attitude Effect, by identifying with a person convicted of a crime, members of the public develop more positive attitudes toward them. These attitudes include being more likely to see the convicted person as having humanity, impulse control, and reason. Researchers have attempted to increase compassion for those convicted of crime in different ways, including through media (articles and videos) and writing exercises (writing about those convicted with compassion and wishes for positive growth).

Better Outcomes

Compassion for people convicted of crimes improves attitudes toward them, increasing support for restorative justice methods, and decreasing support for harsh sentencing like lengthy terms of incarceration, leading to better outcomes for those involved, like closure and healing, learning, reducing stigma and shame, and focusing on reintegration. These benefits lead to better access to employment, education, treatment, and general community involvement, increasing positive outcomes and reducing recidivism for those reentering the community.

La version française

Une recherche issue d’un mémoire de maîtrise de l’Université Wilfrid Laurier met en lumière l’influence décisive des attitudes publiques sur le bien-être et les perspectives des individus condamnés. L’empathie et la compassion occupent une place centrale dans la justice réparatrice, une approche axée sur la réhabilitation et la réintégration, en contraste avec les mesures punitives comme l’incarcération. Les études révèlent que les attitudes s’améliorent lorsque les infractions sont perçues comme involontaires ainsi qu’à travers des exercices favorisant l’empathie, tels que la rédaction de textes empreints de compassion envers les condamnés. Cet « Effet de l’empathie sur l’attitude » valorise leur humanité et leur capacité de rédemption, réduisant les stigmates et renforçant l’adhésion à la justice réparatrice.

Les approches réparatrices offrent des bénéfices notables : diminution de la récidive, peines moins sévères, et meilleures opportunités de réintégration. Au Canada, où le taux de récidive fédérale atteint 23 % (Services correctionnels du Canada), ces méthodes constituent une alternative constructive, favorisant l’accès à l’emploi, à l’éducation et aux soins, tout en promouvant la réhabilitation, la résolution des traumatismes et le renforcement du tissu social.

About this blog: The John Howard Canada blog is intended to support greater public understanding of criminal justice issues.  Blog content does not necessarily represent the views of John Howard Canada.  All blog material may be reproduced freely for any non-profit purpose as long as the source is acknowledged.  We welcome comments (moderated).