reparative

Reparative is an adjective derived from repair or reparation, used to describe acts, processes, or policies aimed at repairing damage, restoring functionality, or compensating harm. The term is applied across disciplines with domain-specific nuance, from jurisprudence to medicine.

In law and ethics, reparative or restorative approaches emphasize repairing relationships and addressing the needs of victims. Restorative justice programs may involve dialogue among harmed parties, accountability by offenders, and community participation, prioritizing reconciliation and repairing the social fabric over punitive measures alone.

In medicine and biology, reparative describes natural or designed processes that heal or restore tissue and function after injury. Reparative tissue healing includes inflammation, cell proliferation, and remodeling. Reparative dentin is dentin formed in response to irritation or injury to a tooth. In regenerative medicine, reparative strategies aim to replace or restore damaged tissues and organs.

In psychology, reparative therapy has been used to describe efforts to change sexual orientation or gender identity. Such practices are controversial and widely discredited by major medical and mental health organizations, which warn they can cause harm. In many jurisdictions, reparative or conversion therapies are restricted or prohibited.

Usage notes: reparative typically functions as an adjective. The related noun forms are reparation and repair, depending on context. The term is distinct from reparations in the sense of compensation payments, though both share the underlying idea of making things right after harm or damage.