Boot Camps in the United States

Types of Prisons Boot Camps

Introduction to Boot Camps

Since the mid-1980s many jurisdictions have implemented highly regimented, short-term correctional programs resembling some aspects of military basic training. These programs, known as boot camps or shock incarceration, serve as an alternative to long-term traditional incarceration. Typically, boot camps target younger offenders who resist authority and refuse to listen or learn in traditional classroom or treatment environments. At boot camps, offenders are subjected to strict discipline, physical training, and hard labor. Most boot camps exclude offenders with violent crime convictions or who have previously been incarcerated. Offenders typically volunteer to participate in boot camps to avoid other types of incarceration. The usual length of incarceration in boot camps ranges from three to six months.

The Georgia Department of Corrections officially established the first boot camp in 1983. By 1999 correctional agencies in 32 U.S. states operated 56 boot camps. A few boot camps also exist in Canada.” (1)

Resources

Notes and References

• Information about Boot Camps in the Encarta Online Encyclopedia

Guide to Boot Camps

Adult Boot Camps in relation to Crime and Race

Adult Boot Camps is included in the Encyclopedia of Race and Crime (1), beginning with: Adult boot camps, also known as “shock incarceration” programs, were first implemented in Georgia and in Oklahoma in late 1983. Boot camps are a form of intermediate sanction that emphasize a military-style atmosphere with hard physical labor, strict physical training, exercise, and an intensive focus on self-discipline. Boot camps have traditionally targeted young, first-time offenders convicted of nonviolent and less serious crimes. Boot camps are aimed at scaring or shocking an individual away from criminal behavior by providing a tough physical atmosphere. Program goals and objectives vary from one facility to another. Most target goals such as diverting offenders from incarceration, instilling confidence and self-respect, and promoting self-discipline through military-style treatment. The length of stay in each boot camp varies, with an average length of stay of approximately 3 to 6 months.

Resources

Notes and References

1. Entry about Adult Boot Camps in the Encyclopedia of Race and Crime

See Also

Boot Camps in the Criminal Justice System

This section covers the topics below related with Boot Camps :

Courts

Sentencing and Sanctions in relation with Boot Camps

Alternatives to Incarceration

Juvenile Justice

Corrections

Detention

Alternatives

Resources

See Also

• Courts
• Sentencing and Sanctions
• Alternatives to Incarceration
• Juvenile Justice
• Corrections
• Detention
• Alternatives