2. IntroductionSince the beginning of the 20th century, violent crimes committed by women have increased. This is due to a shift in gender roles that results in a lack of informal control among women, making them feel more assertive (Kruttschnitt, et. al, 2008). It has been found that women as a whole are less likely to reoffend after attending a restorative justice conference (Hayes, 2005). Given that violent female offenders constitute only a minority offender group (Bonta et.al, 1995), there are research gaps in terms of the effectiveness of restorative justice on their recidivism rates (Latimer et.al , 2005). This research proposal will aim to fill the gaps in this research by describing the theoretical framework that supports the ideology that restorative justice can potentially be more beneficial and have a more positive outcome for women than for men. First, this article will review current literature, highlighting the effectiveness of restorative justice, the research surrounding the increase in violent female offenders, and the potential success of both variables in reducing future recidivism. And finally, a research question and hypotheses will be presented to potentially influence future policy changes.3. Literature Review Restorative justice conferences have been shown to be effective in reducing recidivism. This method of justice involves the offender(s), victim(s) and/or stakeholders of an offense meeting in a professional mediation environment to discuss the offense and negotiate an outcome (Tuddenham, 2001 ). The term “Restorative Justice” refers to practices aimed at making the offender aware of the material and psychological damage or harm that has been caused...... middle of paper ....... (2001). Restorative justice assessment. Journal of Probation, 48(4), 296. doi:10.1177/026455050104800411 Umbreit, MS (1995). Holding juvenile offenders accountable: A restorative justice perspective. Journal of Juvenile and Family Court, 46(2), 31. doi:10.1111/j.1755-6988.1995.tb00815.xUmbreit, MS and Armour, MP (2011). Restorative justice and dialogue: impact, opportunities and challenges in the global community. Journal of Law and Policy, 36(65), 65-89. Verrecchia, P. J. (2009). Female offenders and restorative justice. Women and Criminal Justice, 19(1), 80. doi:10.1080/08974450802586992 Walgrave, L. (2011). Investigation into the potential of restorative justice practice. Washington University Journal of Law & Policy, 36(1), 91. Wortley, R. (2011). Development. In Psychological Criminology: An Integrative Approach (pp. 36). New York, USA: Routledge.