Breaking the Cycle: Understanding Childhood Trauma and Advancing Restorative Justice for a Compassionate Criminal Justice System
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Project Summary
This study examines the link between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and violent behavior among emerging adult men convicted of violent crimes committed when they were ages 18-29, while evaluating restorative justice (RJ) programs as viable alternatives to incarceration. Using a mixed-methods approach, we will assess the prevalence of ACEs, adverse mental health (anxiety and depression) and health behavior (violence and aggression) outcomes through surveys with 350 incarcerated men. Additionally, focus groups with 50 incarcerated men will explore their perceptions of RJ interventions in addressing trauma and fostering rehabilitation. This study seeks to inform policy reforms advocating for mandatory pretrial mental health assessments and trauma-informed RJ interventions, with the goal of reducing incarceration rates and promoting rehabilitative alternatives.
Project funded by:
Commonwealth of Massachusetts Shannon, Jr. Community Safety Initiative grant
Grantee and Partner Organizations for this Project Include:
- Robert O. Motley, PhD (Principal Investigator) – Boston College School of Social Work
- Sean Evelyn (Co-PI) – Founder, Explanations from Exile, LLC
- Daniel and Andrea Delaney – Delaney Policy Group
- Massachusetts Department of CorrectionsÌý
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