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subject: Boot Camps For Girls [print this page]


When adolescent and teen girls exhibit inappropriate behaviors "" such as defiance, impulse control problems, alcohol/drug abuse, and similar actions "" some parents begin to consider boot camps for girls as an effective response.

Boot camps for girls are often characterized by strict rules, a harsh physical component, and a confrontational style of discipline. Many boot camps for girls will take some aspects from military boot camps, but without the standards and oversight provided in real military training programs, the quality and effectiveness of boot camps for girls can vary widely from program to program.

As referred to in the previous paragraph, boot camps for girls are usually marked by strict rules, physical challenges, and confrontational rules enforcement. While these principles may be effective elements of preparing prospective troops for military service, they are far from sufficient when dealing with adolescents and teenagers who are struggling with substance abuse, behavior disorders, and similar challenges.

Boot camps for girls can prompt short-term changes "" primarily due to the shock value of being placed in an unfamiliar and potentially hostile environment. However, without addressing the underlying conditions that may have led to the behavior problems, boot camps for girls are unlikely to promote real and lasting improvements.

Boot camps for girls may use oppressive techniques, such as shackles, handcuffs, dehydration, and exhaustion, to tear down a child"s self-esteem and teach teens to obey out of fear. Drill sergeants are not looking to understand and treat the underlying issues causing the teen to act out; they are merely trying to squash the symptoms (the negative behaviors) as quickly as possible, using whatever means necessary.

In many cases, wilderness programs provide an effective and beneficial alternative to boot camps for girls. Of course, depending upon the nature and severity of the problems they are dealing with, some girls will be best served by outpatient therapy, a residential treatment program, or a therapeutic boarding school. However, parents who prefer a short-term, high-intensity option will most likely find what they"re looking for in a therapeutic wilderness program.

Where boot camps for girls may focus on physical challenges for the sake of discipline or punishment, an effective therapeutic wilderness program will harness the power of physical exertion for its educational and therapeutic impact. In other words, while boot camps for girls might use exercise and other physical challenges to break girls down, therapeutic wilderness programs will employ similar activities to address and remedy problems with self-esteem, self-confidence, personal responsibility, and related issues.

Boot camps for girls are rarely if ever ideal placement for a troubled teenager. Teens in crisis need to address emotional and behavioral issues in a structured and supportive environment staffed by properly trained treatment specialists. They need to discover and be taught behaviors and positive interactions that will improve their academic performance, personal relationships, and personal success.

by: bratc




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