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Reparative Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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reparative

[rɪˈpɛrətɪv ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

in psychology

Relating to or characterized by the process of repairing or restoring something, especially mental or emotional well-being.

Synonyms

healing, rehabilitative, restorative.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
reparative

This word is used when referring to activities or processes that aim to fix or correct damage, often in a physical or emotional sense. It might also be linked to efforts to make amends or compensate for something.

  • The reparative justice system focuses on repairing the harm caused by criminal behavior.
  • Therapists often use reparative techniques to help clients recover from trauma.
restorative

This word is used for actions or processes that restore something to its original or better condition. It can apply to health, relationships, environments, or communities. It typically has a positive connotation.

  • The restorative justice program focuses on repairing the relationship between the offender and the victim.
  • Drinking plenty of water and getting good sleep can have restorative effects on your energy levels.
rehabilitative

This term is often associated with programs or therapies designed to restore skills, functions, or abilities, especially after injury or illness. It's commonly used in medical, legal, and social services contexts.

  • After the surgery, she will need to undergo rehabilitative physical therapy.
  • The prison system's rehabilitative programs aim to help inmates reintegrate into society.
healing

This word is broadly used in contexts related to the process of becoming healthy or whole again, both physically and emotionally. It can apply to medical, psychological, or spiritual recovery.

  • The wound is healing nicely; you should be back to normal in no time.
  • Meditation has proven to be a healing practice for many stressed individuals.

Examples of usage

  • Healing from past trauma often involves engaging in reparative therapies.
  • Reparative actions can help individuals build resilience and overcome adversity.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • In mental health, 'reparative' refers to processes that aim to heal emotional or psychological wounds.
  • Therapeutic techniques are often described as reparative when they focus on restoring well-being after trauma.
  • Reparative practices emphasize understanding and addressing root causes rather than simply managing symptoms.

Cultural Studies

  • In social justice contexts, reparative actions aim to address past injustices and aim for restoration of rights or dignity.
  • Cultural reparations may involve efforts to restore historical narratives or support marginalized communities.
  • Art and media often play a reparative role by providing platforms for voices historically overshadowed.

Literature

  • In literature, reparative reading strategies encourage readers to find hope and restoration in texts rather than solely focusing on trauma or suffering.
  • Many contemporary authors explore reparative themes, seeking to reflect on and heal from personal or societal histories.
  • The concept of reparative narratives can contribute to discussions about resilience and recovery in storytelling.

Origin of 'reparative'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'reparare,' meaning 'to restore' or 'to repair.'
  • It combines the prefix 're-' (again) with 'parare' (to prepare), suggesting the act of preparing again or restoring something.
  • This term started appearing in English around the early 17th century.

The word 'reparative' originates from the Latin word 'reparare', which means 'to restore'. In psychology, the term gained popularity in the mid-20th century with the rise of therapies focused on repairing emotional and mental well-being.