Understanding The Troubled Teen Industry
Exposing the truth and fighting for change in youth residential programs
What is the Troubled Teen Industry?
The Troubled Teen Industry refers to a network of residential youth facilities, behavior modification programs, and wilderness therapy camps that market themselves as treatment centers for adolescents with behavioral issues.
These facilities often operate with minimal oversight and have faced numerous allegations of abuse, neglect, and harmful practices.
Industry Statistics
120,000+
Youth Affected Annually
$1.2B
Industry Market Size
1,000+
Facilities in the US
28
States with Limited Oversight
Common Issues and Concerns
Lack of Regulation
Many facilities operate with minimal oversight and regulation, leading to inadequate safety standards.
Reported Abuse
Documented cases of physical, emotional, and psychological abuse within these facilities.
Deceptive Marketing
Programs often use misleading claims about success rates and treatment methods.
Limited Staff Training
Many facilities employ undertrained staff without proper credentials or experience.