NCJ Number
165598
Date Published
1996
Length
18 pages
Annotation
The Abraxas Foundation has developed a Leadership Development Program to provide short-term, cost-effective residential treatment for delinquent and dependent youth.
Abstract
Most referrals to the program are court-adjudicated delinquents, although a few referrals have been made for dependency clients who are deemed to be incorrigible youth. The program is based on a boot camp design, but it is much closer to a military school in focus. Over a 15-week period, the program attempts to develop self-discipline, self-respect, life skills, and education and to challenge and change irresponsible attitudes. The program also seeks to create an environment that is physically, academically, and morally challenging. At its core, the program has the regimentation and structure of military-style leadership training and ends with a high adventure wilderness experience. The treatment program is based on a combination of several models, including the therapeutic community, reality theory, and criminal personality theory. The four phases of the program are discussed, as well as the program's treatment philosophy, educational programming, family involvement, religious observances, and wilderness activities. 8 references