Personally, this is truely tragic. In another thread i had suggested outward bound as a program. I had also stated that i didnt like their "troubled teen" spin. I think outward bound is a good program for families to experience a good time together.
The "troubled teen industry" is NOT a good time nor is it appropriate for kids of any age.
With that said, i feel bad for the family of the boy and i feel for the boy and the pain he went through. I'm sorry that the DJJ subjected him to this industry. I also want to point out that i dont endorse outward bound, just providing what i've heard about the program. Its also the reason why i said the PARENTS or legal guardian should accompany the minor on any of these "wilderness" expeditions and if at any point they do not feel SAFE, to get out of the situation in whatever way you can in order to protect yourself and your child.
**** side story but relevant*****
When i entered college, i was subjected to bounder experiences. These experiences brought me out into the vermont wilderness/woods and taught me that i am capable of many things. Every freshman in my college went through "winter expedition" I never wanted to go, nor did i wish to subject my body to that, however because it was a class, i did it. I completed the 4 day 3 night journey hiking through kneedeep to waist deep snow with subzero temperatures at night. IF at any time i felt unsafe during the whole expedition, i could get out. I stayed due to peer pressure. I dryheaved on the trail the last day of expedition and was "evacuated" back to the school. Not by my choice, but by the choice of the professors who were hiking with us.
My point is, if at any time you feel unsafe or like y-ou s-h-o-u-l-d leave a program, follow that instinct, and dont feel guilty about it.
*************end tangent*******
I hope the boy's family finds peace with themselves.[ This Message was edited by: mbnh31782 on 2006-06-28 10:46 ]
