In family group conferences, juvenile justice staff convene meetings attended by the offender, those most supportive of the offender (usually family members), the victim, and victim supporters (usually family). The conference coordinator gives all participants an opportunity to explain how the offense affected their lives. Participants also propose a plan of action for dealing with the offense. A plan agreeable to all participants (including the police) is devised. The plan's implementation is monitored by juvenile justice officials, particularly those elements that involve victim compensation and community work. The family conference encourages reintegrative shaming while discouraging stigmatizing forms of shaming for youthful offenders. It tends to nurture acceptance of responsibility by individuals and families, apology, restitution, and forgiveness. This strategy is particularly appropriate for use with juvenile offenders from minority subcultures. 14 references