Abstract
The purpose of this project was to explore the perceptions and knowledge of restorative justice by current social work students enrolled in the Master of Social Work program at California State University, Sacramento. Eighty-two masters in social work students were surveyed regarding knowledge and perceptions of restorative justice practices. Little research has been done to date on social work students’ attitudes toward restorative justice practices. This topic is important within the field of social work due to the current job market, the number of individuals who have involvement with the criminal justice system has created a large number of employment opportunities for social workers. The survey used likert scale questions regarding the respondent’s perception about the connection of restorative justice principles with the values of social work. Participants were also asked about personal beliefs regarding the desired outcomes of interaction with the criminal justice system. The vast majority of participants reported having little to no knowledge of restorative justice practices. This study reinforces the importance of additional education regarding restorative justice in the social work program at California State University, Sacramento. The implications for social work policy and practice will be discussed.