Reintegrative Shaming: Theory into practice

Twenty states have adopted balanced and restorative language in defining the duties of their juvenile courts which has led to the use of restorative justice practices across the country. In order to fully understand the practice of restorative justice, the theory of reintegrative shaming must be examined. This theory is often seen as an integrated theory combining elements of differential association, social bonds, and labeling theories. Using stigma, reintegration with family and community, and guilt, Braithwaite argues that what results is a social process which builds consciences as well as informal social controls to stop future wrongdoing. Examples of these reintegrative shaming principles are explained using real restorative justice victim-offender mediations from the East Tennessee area. It is hoped that a clearer understanding of reintegrative shaming and its positive effects will be able to combat the distrust of this form of justice that faces resistance in communities with a strong desire for punitive punishment.