4.1 interactionism influence on policy

What is decriminalisation?

A crime control policy which involves the reduction or absence of a criminal penalty for certain acts- this is to avoid the label given by a crime including a criminal record- for example decriminalisation of cannabis in some states in America.

Is decriminalisation effective? Pros and cons

Effective- decriminalising minor offences such as possession of cannabis would mean that fewer people were labelled as criminals as a criminal record could prevent them from getting a job. This means that more people are occupied with work, and therefore less likely to offend.

Not effective- cannabis is a gateway drug and could lead to criminality. If they think they can get away with it, they will do more high risk crimes

What is restorative justice?

A crime control policy- this is a voluntary process in which the person who has suffered the harm meets with the person who has caused the harm. Trained facilitators will work with both the offender and victim to talk about what happened, who was affected and how and what can be done to repair the harm

Is it effective? Pros and cons RJ

Effective- focused on repairing harm (PTSD of victims and reintegrating offender back into society) it reduces the stigma on the offender and motivated them to turn away from crime and face consequences. Allows them to make amends and contribute to community which shows they are empathetic and remorseful. Reduces reoffending rate.

Not effective- only focuses on repairing the harm and getting back into society rather than punishing the offender. Therefore not a deterrent as RJ may fail to reduce the reoffending rate. MOJ stated that only 2% of individuals felt that it was effective.