### Question
How does the law define home study?


### Answer
Under *42 U.S.C. § 673c*, **home study** is defined as:

> an evaluation of a home environment conducted in accordance with applicable requirements of the State in which the home is located, to determine whether a proposed placement of a child would meet the individual needs of the child, including the child's safety, permanency, health, well-being, and mental, emotional, and physical development

#### Citation:
  - *42 U.S.C. § 673c*
  - Heading: **CHAPTER 7-SOCIAL SECURITY > SUBCHAPTER IV-GRANTS TO STATES FOR AID AND SERVICES TO NEEDY FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN AND FOR CHILD-WELFARE SERVICES > Part E-Federal Payments for Foster Care and Adoption Assistance**

