title: How Does It Work? Mechanisms of Action in an In-Prison Restorative Justice Program.
abstract: Research is limited on mechanisms of action in restorative justice interventions. This multimethods study delineates the change processes underlying a successful in-prison group treatment program by (a) examining shifts in offenders' self-schemas and (b) identifying key program components that influence this movement. Researchers assigned to small groups as "co-facilitators" gathered data using participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and psychological assessments at three time points. Mechanisms of action include group norms and behaviors that contrast with prior experiences and uncover offenders' self-schemas through intrapsychic processes, which prompt them to test and act upon new possible selves through the group process.
authors.affiliation: 1 University of Texas at Austin, USA.
authors.forename: Marilyn
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Armour
authors.affiliation: 2 University of Denver, CO, USA.
authors.forename: Shannon
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Sliva
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009014:Morals; D011329:Prisoners / Q000523:psychology*; D015397:Program Evaluation; D011615:Psychotherapy, Group; D000075665:Recidivism; D012067:Religion; D012649:Self Concept
keywords: group therapy; mechanisms; offenders; restorative justice