What best describes the outcome sought by restorative justice?

Restorative justice focuses on repairing the harm caused by criminal behavior through the engagement of victims, offenders, and the community. The primary aim is to foster understanding and reconciliation between the victim and the offender. This approach emphasizes accountability and healing, allowing victims to communicate how the crime has affected them, while also encouraging offenders to recognize the impact of their actions and take responsibility. The outcome sought is therefore clear restitution—where the offender makes amends—and reconciliation, which promotes a sense of closure for victims and can help reintegrate offenders into the community. This shifts the focus from punishment to healing, facilitating a collaborative process that supports both the victim's needs and the offender’s rehabilitation.