Description
TitleExperiences of adolescents in a private residential treatment program
Date Created2018
Other Date2018-08 (degree)
Extent1 online resource (xi, 178 p.)
DescriptionA significant number of adolescents experiencing severe psychiatric, psychological, emotional, behavioral, or substance abuse problems are placed in private residential treatment programs annually (Connor et al., 2004). These programs, sometimes referred to as “behavior modification schools,” offer the most restrictive form of on-site services for adolescents other than inpatient care. The present qualitative and retrospective study was designed to elicit the elements having the most salient impact on former patients, and thus to help professionals gain an understanding of how this intervention might benefit adolescents manifesting serious emotional and/or behavioral issues. Ten adults who identified as former patients in a private residential treatment center were interviewed about their experiences. Research questions addressed the reasons for referral, the process by which participants entered the center, their experiences within the program, their discharge, and their post-treatment reflections and recommendations. Data were analyzed using a grounded theory methodology to reveal major themes (Corbin & Strauss, 2014). Themes identified included: (a) from struggling child to scapegoat; (b) treatment versus oppression; (c) experiences of maltreatment, trauma, and the conspiracy of silence; and (d) the ability to find solace, sanctuary, and support. The findings of this study suggested important implications for research, residential treatment programs, practitioners, policymakers, and parents. These included the need for: (a) further research into private residential treatment programs; (b) more advanced training of front-line staff in adolescent mental health; (c) increased effectiveness and humane management of misbehavior; (d) an assessment of biases and perceptions of “troubled youth” within treatment; (e) an examination of the dynamics of power and privilege embedded in roles and policies of the institution; (f) a focus on family-centered and youth-driven approaches; (g) enhanced industry regulation, oversight and transparency; and (g) greater involvement of parents as decision makers concerning placement options and their active participation in treatment.
NotePsy.D.
NoteIncludes bibliographical references
Noteby Christina Ortiz
Genretheses, ETD doctoral
Languageeng
CollectionGraduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology Electronic Theses and Dissertations
Organization NameRutgers, The State University of New Jersey
RightsThe author owns the copyright to this work.
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