In this research brief, the Australian Institute of Criminology outline some of the main components that are evident in successful 'boot camps' or wilderness retreats.

These components are:

• thorough assessment and ongoing monitoring of participants
• a risk management assessment of activities and screening of program staff
• multi-modal treatments with a cognitive-behavioural orientation, e.g. behaviour modification techniques, drug and alcohol programs (Lipsey & Wilson 1998; Singh & White 2000)
• addressing specific criminogenic needs, e.g. attitudes supporting offending, peer groups, family problems, drug and alcohol use, anger and violence problems (Singh & White 2000)
• meaningful and substantial contact between participants and treatment personnel, and
• inclusion of an aftercare component (AIC 2003).

Read the full brief (including reference list) at http://www.aic.gov.au/publications/current%20series/crm/41-60/crm044.aspx