Bootcamp

Bootcamp

One of the key benefits touted by supporters of juvenile boot camp programs is the ability to keep teens out of trouble. These programs appeal to parents and juvenile justice officials who believe that by sending a juvenile to the boot camp, the likelihood the child will conduct further juvenile crimes is reduced.

However, according to a 2008 study, recidivism rates of boot camp attendees are nearly identical to those of juveniles. Essentially, a juvenile offender who attends boot camp is no less likely to go on to commit further crimes.

Another study under the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention not only confirmed this finding, but also showed increased risk amongst some camp graduates. In two of three camps studied, graduates had a higher recidivism rate than those who did not attend the camp, with 72 percent vs. 50 percent and 39 percent vs. 36 percent recidivism rates for graduates vs non-attendees. The third camp showed a 28 percent vs. 31 percent recidivism rate of graduates vs. non-attendees.

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Techniques
Juvenile offenders sent to boot camps are brought into an environment where the confrontational style of military training is used to try to alter the teen's behavior. These tactics include the use of intimidation, humiliation and aggressive behavior. Many experts believe such tactics are counterproductive for the majority of youths in the juvenile justice system, according to Mental Health America. These teens often have behavioral, emotional and learning problems, and the tactics used in these boot camps fail to provide valuable behavioral examples or techniques such that teens can use to change their behavior for the better.

Methodology
According to the Office of Justice Programs, six key factors are present in effective juvenile rehabilitation programs: age-appropriate education, community service,...