Boot Camp for Troubled Teens

There are many programs designed to help troubled teens, including boot camps. Boot camps are short-term, high-intensity camps designed to discipline and motivate teens who have a difficult time adjusting to their communities, homes or schools. However, these military-style camps were originally intended to treat juvenile delinquents, and are often frowned upon by parents and professionals alike. If your child is displaying disruptive behavior such as lack of respect, anger bursts, or is sneaking out or ditching school on a regular basis, you may want to look into alternative programs such as wilderness programs, boarding schools or residential treatment centers. If your child is struggling with a drug or alcohol addition, a boot camp may not be the best option since they will require medical treatment and therapy, including supervised detoxification. In the case of a drug or alcohol abuse, we recommend youth treatment centers.