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Residential Programs
There are a number of residential treatment programs, therapeutic boarding schools, outdoor wilderness camps, and boot camps that address problem behavior in adolescents. Parents should thoroughly research any program before enrolling their troubled teen.
Programs that are called simply "Behavior Modification Schools" may not have the most rounded curriculum and therapeutic program and may not support your child's specific needs. The phrase "behavior modification" is often used very loosely, and even misused to described programs where military-style (boot camps) discipline is the "therapy" of choice. Therapy should go beyond rules and rituals, so parents will be best served if they look for programs that offer a broad range of therapeutic interventions. Teens tend to do best in an environment that lets them explore their interests and talents. Programs that offer a strong academic curriculum as well as recreational and extracurricular activities can be more effective than simply putting your teen in a program that offers little more than policing of your child.
A therapeutic program should not put your child's life on hold. It should give them the opportunity to examine their attitudes and beliefs, challenge themselves, and discover new ways of dealing with school, friends, and family.
If you teen is in dire circumstances and needs intervention for substance abuse or psychiatric problems, the more intensive and monitored residential treatment programs may be necessary as a first step. If your child is not in an urgent, life-threatening situation, research therapeutic boarding schools or wilderness therapy camps.
Many of these therapeutic programs offer remarkable experiences that can transform a troubled teen. Some programs offer a ranch-like setting where the care of the animals serves as a metaphor for the child's personal growth and relationship with others. Some have community service components that allow the teen to contribute something to society and learn about the less fortunate people in our society. A residential program does not have to be a prison to have a profound effect on a troubled teen.