PARTICIPANT BUY-IN

RJ-based alternatives to harm are more likely to produce positive outcomes for participants if there is a non-coercive approach to participant engagement Practitioners who work in the legal and educational sectors described the problematic, punitive, and coercive practices used to engage participants in the RJ process While these practices are sometimes "successful" in getting participants to the space, the probability of a successful outcome is threatened by the presence of punitive contingencies. As a consent-based practice, any attempt to coerce participants is antithetical to the principles and values of RJ. Some practitioners complained that they are asked to facilitate with individuals who participate in the process to avoid punitive actions, such as suspension, incarceration, etc but are not necessarily ready to do the rigorous work required by RJ.

Removing threats of incarceration and other punishment, providing wrap-around support services, including meaningful before and aftercare services, and allowing individuals to learn about RJ on their terms, can reduce the risk of coercion and helps participants build trust in the process.