The program consisting of survival courses on an uninhabited Scottish island costs less than custody alternatives and is designed to help youth on the verge of crime by teaching them responsibility and self-discipline before they go over the edge. The program director rejects the suggestion that ruthless instincts taught by survival courses are the last thing young offenders should be taught. He insists that learning survival is the key part of the program. He also states that the program's military approach teaches young offenders self-assurance and the ability to work with others. Furthermore, he is convinced that survival courses make young offenders less likely to commit further crimes.