Abstract
Restorative justice has found its way into the courts and communities of the United States as its practices have increased in prevalence over a thirty-year period of time. However, a limited number of studies have focused on Americans’ perceptions of restorative justice. This study examines how punitive attitudes may impact perceptions and receptiveness toward restorative justice in undergraduate students at the California State University, Sacramento. Demographic characteristics were used as control variables for further analysis. The findings show that higher punitive mindedness leads individuals to be less receptive to restorative practices. Females and non-white individuals were more likely to support restorative justice than males or white individuals. This study and future research into perceptions of restorative justice can be utilized while determining the viability of restorative programs and policies in a given jurisdiction.