Exploring the Good Lives Model Concepts among an Ethnically Diverse Sample of Forensic Clients: A Qualitative Study

The increasing ethnic diversity in Europe’s forensic population challenges culturally sensitive rehabilitation. The Good Lives Model, a strengths-based rehabilitation framework promoting well-being and desistance, provides a universal structure but shows potential for cultural adaptation. This study explores the emic dimensions of the GLM’s core concepts and assumptions—primary goods, secondary goods, strengths, and obstacles—among ethnically diverse forensic clients, with particular attention to how they perceive and engage with the model. Semi-structured Good Lives interviews were conducted with 18 forensic clients from diasporic groups. Findings indicate that while primary goods hold universal relevance, cultural factors influence their prioritization attainment. The GLM enables recognition of systemic barriers alongside individual strengths. Participants perceived the Good Lives Interview as fostering comfort and rapport, enabling discussions on sensitive topics, including offending behavior.