Are Boot Camps for Kids Effective?
Experts agree that a confrontational approach to teen problems is often inappropriate. Most correctional and military experts agree that a confrontational model, employing tactics of intimidation and humiliation, is counterproductive for most kids. The use of this kind of model has led to disturbing incidents of abuse. For kids with emotional, behavioral, or learning problems, degrading tactics may be particularly inappropriate and potentially damaging. The bullying style and aggressive interactions that characterize the boot camp environment fail to model the pro-social behavior and development of empathy that these kids really need to learn. Positive changes demonstrated while in boot camps for kids may not last when a youth returns to his/her community. Many kids report that the program is helpful, and that they feel more positive about their futures. It is unclear, however, whether these attitudes persist after kids leave boot camps, or whether they are related to actual changes in
