Impacts of mental health group homes on Muncie, Indiana

Mental health group homes located in residential neighborhoods are considered a locally undesirable land uses. Most communities and neighborhood members are misinformed or unaware of numerous studies conducted in the United States concerning the impacts of mental health group homes. This study investigated several conflicting issues associated with the siting of mental health group homes and the three most expressed oppositions by the general public to the integration of these facilities into residential neighborhoods. This creative project determined what effects, if any, a mental health group home has on property values, crime and neighborhood stability using a Comparable Market Analysis, Muncie Police Department records, Multiple Listing Service information, interviews and records form Comprehensive Mental Health Services of East Central Indiana. A description of the process used and results are given along with a determination of the impacts mental health group homes have had on the Muncie, Indiana neighborhoods where one is located.