group home | Definition

Doc's CJ Glossary by Adam J. McKee
Course: Introduction

A group home is a home where a small number of individuals in need of care or supervision live together.


A group home is a type of residential facility where individuals in need of care or supervision live together. These homes are intended to provide a safe and supportive environment for people who are unable to live independently due to various reasons such as physical, emotional, or mental disabilities or other forms of impairments. Group homes can be operated by non-profit organizations, government agencies, or for-profit entities.

In the context of the criminal justice system, group homes can play an essential role in providing a supportive environment for individuals who have been involved in the justice system. For example, some group homes may be designed to house individuals who have recently been released from prison or who are transitioning from a juvenile detention facility to independent living. Group homes can provide a structured environment that offers a wide range of support services, including counseling, education, job training, and substance abuse treatment.

One of the primary benefits of these homes is that they can provide a sense of community and social support that is often lacking in other types of residential facilities. For individuals who have been involved in the criminal justice system, social isolation and a lack of community support can be significant barriers to successful reentry. These environments can help to address these challenges by providing a supportive and welcoming environment where residents can connect with others who have had similar experiences.

Additionally, group homes can be an effective way to reduce recidivism rates by providing residents with the tools and resources they need to successfully reintegrate into society. By providing education and job training programs, these homes can help individuals develop the skills they need to obtain stable employment and become self-sufficient. They can also offer counseling services to address any mental health issues or substance abuse problems that may be contributing to criminal behavior.

However, despite their potential benefits, there are also some concerns regarding their use. For example, some critics argue that they can perpetuate a sense of institutionalization and dependency among residents. Others point out that group homes may be subject to abuse or neglect, particularly if they are run by for-profit entities that prioritize profit over the well-being of their residents.

To address these concerns, it is essential that group homes are subject to proper oversight and regulation. Government agencies should conduct regular inspections to ensure that group homes are providing a safe and supportive environment for their residents. Additionally, non-profit organizations and other entities that operate group homes should be required to adhere to strict ethical and operational standards.


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Last Modified: 04/21/2023

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