Here's some interesting excerpts from the Siblings Manual. I thought it was interesting that they addressed the issue of brainwashing:
http://www2.netdoor.com/~ssl/~ssl/Sibling%20Manual.htmHow does the program work? Are they brain washing my brother/sister?
The program works by encouraging, reinforcing and rewarding positive choices. Poor behavior and negative choices result in immediate consequences such as CATs. It is not brainwashing because the kids get to make their own choices.
4. Why can?t I see them? Why can?t I talk to them on the phone?
No one from home can see them or talk on the phone to them for a long time, including your parents. This is a time for them to look at what they were doing and learn to make changes. Seeing or hearing you or your parents just makes it harder for them to change. They learn how much they really do care about you and your parents by not being allowed to talk to or see you guys and that helps them change.
How could my parents send my brother/sister to some place they never even seen?
It is likely your parents wanted to find a safe place for your brother/sister so badly that they could actually make a decision like this, as crazy as it may seem to you. They may have not had time to visit the facility, but they certainly reviewed information about the facility, talked with other parents who have faced similar situations, or obtained a referral from someone prior to making this difficult decision.
Are these seminars brainwashing my parents?
It may seem like aliens have turned your parents' brains to jello when they come home after the seminars, but they have NOT been brainwashed. The classes are really long, so for one thing, your parents have not had much sleep, and you know how that can make you act. (Ever walk into a wall or trip over your shoes when you were really tired?) The big thing is that the seminars teach your parents new ways to look at their own thoughts and actions and to learn things about themselves.
Why are my parents so tired after these seminars?
Can you say ?slumber party?? Well, it?s lots more work, but your parents really don?t get much sleep. And they even have homework every night! AND?they get ?in trouble? if they don?t do their homework! (It?s only fair, you know!) Besides, they?re not as young as they used to be! Ha!
Will I be sent away?
No. Your parents aren't through torturing you, yet. Kidding. Actually, if you think about it, your brother/sister made choices that weren't good for them or for your family. This isn't a punishment for them (or for you). It is meant to save their lives. Yeah, that sounds scary! Whether you knew it or not, your brother/sister was living very dangerously and this program is a way to keep them safe that your parents couldn't provide at home.
I feel lonely because my parents are too busy with the Program.
Yes, program parents are the worst, huh? Tell them that you feel lonely. Let your parents know that you want to spend more time with them and help them out by telling them what makes you feel the best.