The 5 ‘R’s of Restorative Practice are an excellent foundation for understanding the restorative process. Dr. Beverly Title is the originator of the 5 ‘R’s designed in the shape of a person’s hand in 2007, the co-founder of ReSolutionaries, and restorative practices pioneer.
Relationship is the first ‘R.’ Relationships build the foundation of restorative practices. When relationships are harmed, repairing and re-building relationships become the focus.
Respect is the second ‘R.’ Anyone involved in the restorative practice process is expected to demonstrate respect for others and themselves. This key ingredient helps ensure the process is safe for all involved.
Responsibility is the third ‘R.’ Each person involved in an incident that causes harm must take personal responsibility for the harm caused and demonstrate willingness to explain their harmful behavior even if it was unintentional.
Repair is the fourth ‘R.’ After taking personal responsibility, the person repairs harm and makes things as right as possible while identifying the underlying causes.
Reintegration is the final ‘R.’ After taking responsibility and repairing the relationship as much as possible, the hurtful act is considered transformed. When the person learns from his/her choices and is ready to move forward, reintegration occurs.