Teenage boot camps are punishment-based institutions that use military style exercise, discipline and harsh physical training to control a defiant adolescent who can one day return home following rules, listening to authority and showing improved behavior. With this type of camp, there is no therapy to discuss underlying issues that may have formed. The theory behind the camp is that a ‘hard kick in the behind’ will change a child who has been misbehaving for many years.
Some parents question why one would send a troubles teen to a program that was originally created for children who have behaved in a criminal act. Parents send their children to these camps because the environment is aimed at changing behavior through self-understanding, intending to scare kids into good behavior. This method has been tested and proven over again with children.
There are many types of boot camps for teenagers. Some are run by the state and considered juvenile jail. Others are privately owned camps. All of these boot camps were created as a short term answer and alternative to military school. The idea behind the camps is to teach a child that they are not the center of everything and breakdown their stubborn will. Both a private boot camp for teenagers and those run by the government claim the ability to conform in a teenager in six or eight weeks. They believe they can change a child who has broken the law or has difficulty with behavior into one who has a good attitude toward society and adults.
Unfortunately for both challenging teenagers and their parents, many times an attitude adjustment does need more than someone from the outside to force the desired change. It is also required that the teenage be aware of his or her attitude and want to change it. Often times, camps will provide residential centers for treatment, boarding school, drug treatment centers as well as the boot camps.
The cost of a teenage boot camp will vary depending on the type of camp chosen and the length of time staying in the camp. Many of those who are attending can qualify for student loans and loans from specific lenders. There are a few programs that are eligible for insurance reimbursement if all criteria are met with the insurance company.
