NCJ Number
168994
Journal
Journal of Contemporary Criminal Justice Volume: 13 Issue: 2 Dated: (May 1997) Pages: 139-154
Date Published
1997
Length
16 pages
Annotation
This study evaluated the effectiveness of Hidalgo County's boot camp program (Texas), using six measures: target population, program completion, service delivery, attitude change, community adjustment, and recidivism.
Abstract
There are several key components of the boot camp programming. The first component consists of the Drill and Ceremony, which includes wearing military-style uniforms, physical exercise, marching in order, and strict discipline enforced by drill instructors. The purpose of the military training is to teach teamwork and help the residents improve their self-esteem. A second component incorporates substance abuse counseling into the schedules of all residents. Because most of the residents had prior problems with substance abuse, there is both group and individual counseling offered by a full- time drug/alcohol counselor. To maintain a drug-free facility, residents undergo unannounced drug testing. A third component of the program consists of educational training. A fourth component of the programming consists of religious activities conducted by a family worker and local volunteers. This evaluation focused on the first 16 platoons (n=403) to complete the boot camp program from its inception in June 1993 through December 1995. This evaluation indicates that during the first 2 1/2 years of operation the boot camp has succeeded in targeting and delivering services to a population in need. Measures of attitudinal change suggest that the residents have received these services in the intended manner. A positive change in attitude was shown along several dimensions, along with a successful adjustment in the community. 4 tables, 3 notes, and 24 references