What is a Reform School for Troubled Teens?

Reform schools are probably not something that you hear come up in daily conversations with other parents or friends, and if it does, the definition of what this type of school might be like will undoubtedly vary from person to person. So, really, what is a reform school for troubled teens? In essence, a reform school is where teenagers are sent to change their behavior instead of going to jail or prison. These teens have typically broken the law at some point or time, and they need assistance in managing their emotions, understanding where their behavior is coming from, and learning how to act and behave in more acceptable ways.  However, the term “reform school” isn’t used nearly as often nowadays; instead, you’ll hear it being replaced with “residential treatment centers” or boarding schools.  Let’s cover a brief history and purpose of reform school, as well as the effectiveness of a reform school. From there, you can decide if a path like this one might be right for your teen. 

History and Purpose of Reform Schools

Reform schools have quite a long history; in fact, many were up and running in the middle of the 1800s. Unfortunately, many children and teenagers in the past that broke laws or were leaning toward criminal offenses were often placed in these institutions and were termed “delinquents.”  Due to the extreme jail-like overtones of these schools and cases of abuse, reform schools have dwindled within the country over the last several decades. 

Effectiveness of Reform Schools

While the mindset behind the programming in reform schools was most likely for good, having the children and teens absorb feedback and instruction from hardened criminals was actually making their behavior worse than when they initially entered the reform school. It’s easy to see how teens with behavioral issues might act out even more when under the supervision and guidance of prior adult inmates!  In fact, research has shown that teens who are placed into these rough and tough reform schools can be more likely to grow up with issues like addiction to drugs and alcohol, post-traumatic stress disorder, and an intense criminal record, to name a few. 

Reform School to Treatment Programs

Let’s be honest - it can be challenging raising teenagers in this day and time. There is no question that most teens will toe the line at one point or another, especially as they are learning boundaries and what is and isn’t acceptable in daily life. This can be exacerbated even further if there is a history of mental illness or emotional issues. Sometimes, as parents, we need a little bit of help ensuring our children are on the right path. Now, does this mean an immediate entrance into a type of reform school? Thankfully, no. As stated above, the use of the term “reform school” isn’t used nearly as often in the 21st century. Instead, programs and treatment centers aim to help teenagers get the best help possible for their mental and emotional behaviors (without taking them to see someone in prison).  Termed residential treatment centers or therapeutic boarding schools, these programs use a more gentle (yet disciplined) approach to improving the behavior of troubled teens. You will also find that these types of programs utilize the following:

• Specific evaluations designed to meet your teen where they are
• Individualized plans that are created to help your teen flourish, grow, and reach their goals
• Care from psychiatrists, psychologists, doctors, counselors, and any other necessary individuals 
• One-on-one and group therapy sessions

In addition, many residential treatment centers and boarding schools utilize hands-on learning and a certain level of responsibility; this could look like making beds each morning, organizing a volunteer activity, or even just staying on top of school work with a daily study hall.  You’ll also have contact with your child, which can be a big piece of the healing puzzle for many teens. Whether through face-to-face interactions, phone calls, or Zoom, many therapeutic centers for troubled teens encourage the connection between the teen and family members. 

In Review

Now you know the difference between reform schools of the past and the current residential treatment centers, boarding schools, and therapy centers for teens that need help with their behavior. We have discussed the brief history of reform schools, the effectiveness (or lack thereof) of these schools, and the transformation from reform schools to more gentle approaches such as therapeutic centers.  With this information, you can be assured that a reform school experience of the past is not what you would be exposing your teen to if you are researching ways to move forward with your teen who might be dealing with drug or alcohol abuse, risky behavior, oppositional defiant disorder, or even ADHD. Instead, the options available today for teen treatment are much more advanced and effective. So now what?  If you feel as though a warm, uplifting, and supportive environment would be suitable for your teen to help get them back on track, reach out to the team of specialists at Liahona Academy. By incorporating education with discipline and counseling, the staff of professionals can work to get the negative habits of your teen removed while subsequently boosting their self-esteem and overall work ethic. Reach out today to get your questions answered!