The Meaning of Fairness to Burglary Victims

Source: (1990) In: B. Galaway and J. Hudson (eds.), Criminal Justice, Restitution, and Reconciliation. Monsey, NY: Criminal Justice Press.

This study reports on interviews with 50 burglary victims from Hennepin County, MN to gain an understanding of their perception of fairness. The concept of fairness took on a variety of meanings for the victims; the most prominent dimension was the importance of opportunities to participate in the criminal justice process. Additional findings are presented. Three types of victims were identified: the “healer,” who stresses rehabilitation for the juvenile offender; the “fixer,” who stresses compensation and the need to face consequences by repairing damage; and the “avenger,” who stresses firm punishment often in an institutional setting.