The current assumption that boot camp is the most effective measure for the modification of the behavior of drug abusing offenders tends to minimize the complexity of social problems and interplay of individual and environmental factors. Boot camps typically use military-style techniques to inculcate discipline and obedience in residents. The methods used to affect changes in residents are highly varied, however; they depend on the philosophy of the current correctional administration as well as the expertise and training of the staff. Boot camp programs show some success in diverting the young, nonviolent first offender from the heterogeneous population of medium-security or maximum-security prisons. On the other hand, they may enlarge the net for young first offenders who previously were considered good candidates for probation supervision (a less costly method than boot camp). Given the authoritarian, intimidating thrust of the boot camp strategy, it tends to promote the "machismo" role model for male behavior. This may involve shouting at, belittling, cursing, and denigrating the residents. This not only assaults the already meager self-esteem of the residents, but also presents a model for similar abuse in attempting to bolster self-esteem in interaction with others. It is unlikely that the behavioral modification attempted at boot camp, even if successful, will be reinforced upon return to the peer environment from which offenders usually come. 7 references