Degree Name

MA (Master of Arts)

Program

Criminal Justice and Criminology

Date of Award

5-2012

Committee Chair or Co-Chairs

John T. Whitehead

Committee Members

Steven J. Ellwanger, Michael C. Braswell

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between the attitudes of citizens in Vermont and the newly instated restorative justice programs of the Vermont Department of Corrections. To complete this task, 601 Vermont residents were contacted via telephone interview and asked a series of questions concerning their opinion about 3 restorative justice programs, namely reparative boards, the diversion program, and the furlough program. Bivariate analysis determined if a relationship exists between the dependent variables, restorative justice programs, and independent variables, demographic characteristics such as age and gender. Results of the analysis revealed several factors contributing to attitudes about the Vermont department of corrections, including opinions whether the courts can handle their caseloads, overall belief in the criminal justice system, and views about restorative justice programs. Future implications of these findings and recommendations for future study are also included.

Document Type

Thesis - unrestricted

Copyright

Copyright by the authors.

Included in

Criminology Commons

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