Ethnic Differences in Support for Restorative Justice in Sexual Abuse Cases: The Role of Offense Severity and Malleability Beliefs

This study explores public attitudes toward restorative justice (RJ) in cases of intrafamilial and extrafamilial sexual abuse within the Israeli multiethnic society. The research investigates the role of perceived offense severity and malleability beliefs, moderated by ethnic identity. Findings reveal that Jewish participants perceive intrafamilial offenses as more severe and show lower support for RJ, mediated by malleability beliefs. In contrast, Arab participants do not differentiate between intra- and extrafamilial offenses in terms of severity, and their support for RJ is less influenced by these factors. These results highlight cultural factors shaping support for RJ in sexual abuse cases.