Why Parents Are Choosing Wilderness Camps

Written by Wood Creek Academy

For many parents with troubled children, sending them to a boot camp for teenagers might seem like the last resort for changing their behavior. In many cases, these juvenile camps are constructed to modify a teen’s behavior through the reinforcement of the negative consequences of their actions. In many cases, this leads kids to react strongly against the program and become angry in response.

 

However, not all programs for troubled youth use negative behavior modification techniques. One encouraging method to help juveniles work through their issues is wilderness therapy. Teens are brought into a group environment where – with adult supervision and encouragement – they learn how to work with others to solve real-world survival problems.

 

Unlike a juvenile boot camp, wilderness therapy programs give troubled youths a chance to build their sense of self-worth by engaging in group activities while surrounded by supportive staff. By interacting with other teens and working together, kids learn the benefits of making connections. In addition, being out in the wilderness gives troubled teens a chance to get away from the negativity and bad influences that might be causing them to act out at home or in school.

 

Being in nature gives troubled youths a chance to reflect on their current life situation and take stock of their choices. The opportunity to work toward positive interactions reinforces that they are capable of making good decisions and succeeding in life. Many participants in wilderness camps can go home immediately, while others benefit from transitioning to programs such as therapeutic boarding schools to continue their personal growth process.

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Based in Montana, Wood Creek Academy is a therapeutic boarding school that gives young men ages 13-18 a chance to make positive changes to their lives. The program is designed to help teens with low self-esteem, anger management issues or drug and alcohol problems.