Military Schools in Arizona

 

Military Schools in Arizona

Military Schools in ArizonaWhat

are Military Schools in Arizona? Military Schools in Arizona are

treatment programs for struggling youth in a military-style

environment. These programs typically emphasize discipline and

physical conditioning and were developed as a rigorous alternative

to longer terms of confinement in juvenile correctional facilities.

Military Schools are generally restricted to teens with little

or mild behavioral issues. Military Schools are not an appropriate

setting for teens experiencing emotional, behavioral, substance

abuse, or learning problems.

The idea of “shock incarceration”

as a tough alternative to more intensive programming

brought about the establishment of military-style

boarding schools for troubled youth.

Military Schools for ArizonaAre

Military Schools in Arizona Effective?

Experts agree that a confrontational approach is not appropriate.

Most treatment care and military experts agree that a

confrontational model, employing tactics of intimidation

and humiliation, is counterproductive for most youth.

For youth with emotional, behavioral, substance abuse,

or learning problems-degrading tactics may be particularly

inappropriate and potentially damaging. The bullying style

and aggressive interactions that characterize the Military

Schools environment fail to model the pro-social behavior

and development of empathy that these teens really need

to learn.

Positive changes demonstrated while in

Military Schools usually do not last when a teen returns to

his Arizona community. Many teens report that the program

is helpful to them and they feel more positive about their futures.

It is unclear, however, whether these attitudinal changes persist

after teens leave the Military School, or whether they are related

to actual changes in behavior once a youth returns to his community.

Without significant therapeutic intervention while in the program,

as well as specialized aftercare following release, Military

Schools in Arizona have been consistently unsuccessful in “changing”

juveniles.

What are the alternatives?

Arizona teens who need some form of treatment care require an

individualized approach that takes their strengths and needs

into account. Programs and policies should be family-centered

– including the family in all decision making about a child

– as well as culturally and developmentally appropriate. Research

has shown that small, family-centered programs are more effective

than military schools in the long term.

Give us a call and together we can discuss

the best course of action for your child. We can be reached

any time at 1-866-490-3666.