The field of humanistic political psychology should not only show how social problems result from psychological processes but also show which political practices best promote human growth. Three general principles guide the search for more humanistic political institutions. Better policies (1) result from a reconceptualization of underlying assumptions, (2) transcend political polarities by synthesizing conflicting positions, and (3) promote higher levels of psychological health. Criminal restitution exemplifies such a policy. The impending crisis in criminal punishment is described. Restitution is evaluated as an emerging alternative to conventional punishments. Measured against the three above criteria, restitution appears to be a practical policy that can contribute to a healthier society.
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