Participants experience a lifestyle that reflects what it would be like for them if they did not have what their parents, or others have provided for them. All participants live in tents, sleep on the floor and cook their own meals on an open campfire. The entire Military Teen Boot Camp experience is designed to teach respect. The program offers a military-type regimentation including a strong set of rules with high expectations and follow through. Failure to follow rules or commands will bring immediate consequences.
Participants quickly develop a solemn respect for rules, orders, and authority figures.
The program is also physically challenging with a significant amount of marching with backpacks on a daily basis. Through this process, participants develop a new-found respect for themselves and others. Military Teen Boot Camp views the act of personal responsibility as a critical character trait that must be internalized in order for any individual to achieve success in society. Every aspect of the program focuses on participants becoming responsible. This begins with taking responsibility for basic needs such as warmth, food, and shelter.