Changing mindsets in prison: how incremental beliefs enhance the effectiveness of a victim awareness program and support for restorative practices

The study, conducted within the Israeli prison system, examines the psychological mechanisms that support correctional clients’ engagement with restorative justice (RJ), with a focus on incremental beliefs. It examines whether a psychological intervention aimed at strengthening these beliefs can affect attitudes toward RJ and the effectiveness of a victim awareness program (VAP). Using a randomized controlled design (N = 153), participants were assigned to either an experimental group (intervention + RJ-based VAP) or a control group (VAP only). Self-report measures were collected at baseline, post-intervention, and one-month follow-up. The intervention significantly increased incremental beliefs and support for RJ, with effects persisting over time. Participants in the experimental group also reported greater emotional involvement during the program, particularly guilt, shame, remorse, and sadness. Mediation analysis showed that emotional involvement served as a mediator. This study demonstrates the potential of belief-focused interventions to enhance both the perceived value and emotional effectiveness of RJ in correctional contexts.