Affect Theory: Why Restorative Practices Work

Source: (2002) Paper presented at “Dreaming of a New Reality,” the Third International Conference on Conferencing,
Circles and other Restorative Practices, August 8-10, 2002, Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Affect Theory has come to be seen as a firm theoretical underpinning for all of the restorative practices forums. This will be a straightforward look at the basic principals of Affect Theory. I will make practical the theory through examples form my work as a Family Physician. Affect Theory works on the premise that innate emotion is primary and reason is secondary. Whether we are in one-on-one therapeutic relationship or trying to resolve a major community conflict the need to look beyond behavior and speech is essential to achieving deep healing. Author’s abstract