Some people don't see Summit as a "program" in the way you are speaking of. But for some people a program by any other name is still a program.
Well. It seems relatively benign as far as abuse goes, however... It's difficult to say for sure without knowing more. And even if I did know more, I wasn't there, and would have to interview a few people to make a judgment on that and in no case would I recommend the place, regardless.. Why? in the current state of this industry, it would set a dangerous president. Also programs changed as they "evolve"... Concentrated power... I've seen it happen before.
It is not accurate to say
ultimately the child not being submissive and obedient enough and making them be that way, go through a level system, and the whole time disclose their innermost, most personal and embarrassing shit/baggage/you name it to the program.
There is no level system there. A student comes in with all their privileges (cellphone, computers, TV, home visits, trips, movie night) and it is up to them whether they keep them or lose them. They are not requiring or seeking submission from the student.
In all fairness, a lot of programs say that, but end up making up reasons to take away those "privileges" almost immediately (if not immediately) after arrival. The program I went to claimed to let us have a lot of stuff (after the first month)... Well. A month went buy, and when I asked for what they claimed they would give me, they told me the rules had changed. They told my parents i had lost my "privileges" to those things. Six months later, they were still telling new "students" the same exact spiel about what they were allowed in program (the rules never really changed, in case it isn't obvious). I made it a point of asking them what they were told on the "tour". In my opinion, communication with the outside world, especially with parents, is a right, and not a privilege. Has your son had any of his "privileges" taken away? Have you compared notes with him on what the reasons were (probably best to ask him that after program).
Can't handle it? It would probably be better for your child if you abandoned him than sent him to a program if you can't take the heat.
In my opinion that is a ridiculous statement. But no problem, I've heard worse.
most of them were looking for a quick answer, attention for themselves, or some way to justify and rationalize program placement
Maybe, but not so here. I know there are no quick answers, although I wouldn't mind a magic pill. I am not looking for your agreement nor your submission. I came here seeking information, I heard it, I got it. I have remained so I could explain my choices and give some info on the "summit experience".
The long and short of it all.... is I love being his mom. I would never throw him away or wish for a "different" child/teacher. He is un-freaken-believable! And he makes the best damn brownies ever!
Well. That's great... but why is he still at the Summit. It seems like you have a lot of doubts regarding the program, so why don't you see if you can work out a solution at home. As much as you think a program might be helpful to him, it seems from what you say that you get along with him fine. If nothing else, a parent's love is often more therapeutic than anything therapy could ever offer.
Even if this program isn't abusive, it seems as if it does border on fraudulent. They misrepresented what they offered to get your money, and your example with the SADD thing tells me that they care more about the bottom line than the kids they claim to help. Don't you think you could do a better job of caring for / providing support for him if he was at home.
