The goal of Riverside School is to assist students in making a productive change in their lives by teaching them to act constructively. In reality, the staff spend the majority of their time addressing the issues of discipline and safety. If a student attempts to physically harm himself or others the staff are required to intervene. There are several physical restraints per week. Students frequently refuse to follow the rules of the program.
Students commonly use vulgar, sexual, and threatening language.
Community and personal property constantly gets damaged or lost. Traditionally, all staff, whether therapeutic, educational, or residential, relied on a system of behavior management that emphasized participation in a talk milieu rather than purposeful action. In an attempt to establish a connection with a reluctant, resistant, or belligerent resident, a staff person would associate behavior with feelings. It is very important to talk about your feelings, express them appropriately, and make certain that you get all your feelings out. It is a good thing that Johnnie has started to act violently, aggressively, and destructively.