Sex Abuse in Rehab? How Predators Can Take Advantage of Addicts Seeking Help

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4. Be aware that any program that cuts your child off from you and the outside world, that sees its charges as liars and manipulators and that believes “toughness” is essential is basically a case of abuse waiting to happen. Establishing boundaries and clear rules without dehumanizing or humiliating people is possible. But doing so requires professionalism, critical thinking, oversight, checks and balances—none of which the con artists who run “tough love” programs have in stock when parents come running. This  fact sheet from the Federal Trade Commission specifically for parents of troubled teens gives very helpful background information on the licensing, accreditation and other regulatory requirements that separate legit youth rehabs from the other kind.