Why emotions work: Restorative justice, interaction ritual and the micro potential for emotional transformation
Abstract
This research integrates knowledge from the sociology of emotions, micro-sociology, and criminology to understand if and how a restorative justice conference can be a transformative event for offenders, with the potential to reduce offending. Using a micro-sociological framework, with a focus on the ritual production of shared emotion, I examine how a conference can succeed or fail on the micro level, and the implications for future offending. To address these questions, I use a number of methods, including in-depth interviews with police facilitators, micro analysis of a conference video, and quantitative analysis of systematic observations of conferences. Results indicate that the micro dynamics of a conference can be empirically measured, such as the development of verbal and non verbal rhythm, entrainment, and balance. These variables influence success on a micro level, such as the short-term production of positive emotions and group solidarity. Police facilitators use a number of strategies to ensure that these necessary variables to a successful restorative justice conference are present. Furthermore, high solidarity conferences result in significantly less arrests than less successful conferences at a five year follow-up. I conclude by offering a micro theory of how restorative justice can be a successful criminal justice intervention, with practical recommendation on how to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of conferencing.
Recommended Citation
Meredith Rossner,
"Why emotions work: Restorative justice, interaction ritual and the micro potential for emotional transformation"
(January 1, 2008).
Dissertations available from ProQuest.
Paper AAI3309497.
http://repository.upenn.edu/dissertations/AAI3309497
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