Crime Victims and Offenders in Mediation: An Emerging Area of Criminology and Correctional Administration

Abstract

Criminologists are playing an increasing role in all fields of life, the mediation of conflict between crime victims and their offenders. By serving as community organizers, program developers and managers, trainers and mediators, Criminologists are affecting criminal justice system. In correction, Criminology not only helps individuals, groups and community to solve problems, but also assists them to prevent offending behaviour and enrich their living. So, the main focus of the Criminology is upon helping people to prevent and control crime. The Criminology usually works with clients on a conscious level, helping them to face realities and solve problems in preventing and controlling offending behaviours. Victim-offender mediation provides an opportunity for crime victims to meet the offender, talk about the offence, express concerns and negotiate a mutually agreeable restitution agreement. A brief overview of mediation process is presented in this paper. The issues related to program development and replication is also identified.