The history of most programs can be found at struggling teens. Rather than focusing on the program, notice the players, how they move around, which program(s) they were involved with prior to opening their own, who were their mentors?
They are all more alike than different with slightly unique twists on things.
For instance, one program that desired to set itself apart from the bad boys out west, still hired a CEDU man as headmaster. The program has many elements and methods of CEDU, but not all.
One program owner worked at two very abusive programs where deaths had ocurred before opening his own program. Ironically, his program was closed due to a death.
They're all sordid branches of the same tree with a common root. This becomes clearer as one compares the lingo and methods used. Like one big happy incestuous family.
Apparently Willa concocted her own method, posted in another thread, but also uses the militaristic approach which is as old as the hills. They're a breed unto themselves and most 'respectable' programs desperately attempt to distinquish themselves from the low-life boot camps.
Still, when the day is done... they are all more alike than different. Some more savvy about keeping the abuse overt and/or soft on the physical abuse but heavy on the mind f'in.
They've all figured out how to drive a wedge between parent and child, while preaching 'family healing' and 'reunion'. And keeping that wedge there for them maximum lenght of time- some even suggesting boarding environments post 'graduation'- to decrease attrition and maximize profits. Would prefer to keep mommy and daddy's illusion of change in tact. You have to give it to them, its quiet an awesome business plan.
