What is Brat Camp?

Brat camp is a term related to wilderness programs and boot camps. A camp for a "bratty" teenager. Usually, these brat camp programs are not accredited schools, offer little or no follow up care for the troubled teen, and aren't for violent or seriously troubled teens. Typically these brat camps are used as a quick fix or used for "shock" treatment to stun the child or teen to make them realize that their parents are needed and should be respected. Sometimes these programs or camps may be referred to as intervention camps. Brat camps are typically used by parents on youth in their early teen years.

Brat camps, like wilderness programs and boot camps, are not effective in long-term results in change of troubled teen behavior. They typically do not confront the issues that result in the behavior. Residential treatment centers and specialty boarding schools are more appropriate options than brat camps.