What is one of the noted positive outcomes of victim-offender mediation?

Victim-offender mediation is designed to facilitate a dialogue between the victim and the offender, allowing both parties to express their feelings, thoughts, and experiences related to the crime. One of the notable positive outcomes of this process is that victims often report feeling understood. This understanding comes from the opportunity to communicate directly with the offender and to hear their perspective, which can help validate the victim's feelings and experiences.

Additionally, when victims feel that their voices are heard and that they have played a role in the resolution of the conflict, it can significantly reduce their anxiety and fear surrounding the incident. This reduction in fear of revictimization occurs because victims become more empowered through the mediation process, gaining a sense of control over their situation and the outcome.

While community involvement and other aspects also play important roles in restorative justice processes, the specific impact on victims' perception of safety and fear in relation to future victimization stands out as a direct, positive outcome of victim-offender mediation. The focus in this context is on the emotional and psychological benefits that come from the restorative dialogue, which is central to the mediation process.