What is wwasp?

WWASP stands for Worldwide Association of Specialty Programs and Schools. It was an organization comprised of various troubled-teen programs, therapeutic boarding schools, residential treatment centers, and behavior modification programs. WWASP facilities were located in the United States and internationally.

The association was largely criticized for its methods. Common allegations against WWASP programs included:

• Abuse: Former students have reported physical, emotional, and psychological abuse at the hands of staff.
• Lack of Proper Accreditation: Many WWASP programs operated with questionable or nonexistent accreditation, raising concerns about the quality of care and education provided.
• Brainwashing and Mind Control: Critics argued that WWASP programs used coercive techniques to control residents' behavior and thought processes.
• Isolation: Many former students report that programs used isolation tactics, cutting them off from outside contact and support networks.
• Unqualified Staff: There were accusations of staff lacking the proper training or credentials to work with troubled youth.
• Financial Exploitation: The high costs of WWASP programs, coupled with allegations of deceptive marketing practices, led to accusations of financial exploitation of families.

WWASP effectively dissolved in the early 2000s amidst growing public scrutiny and legal challenges. However, many of the programs that were once affiliated with WWASP continue to operate under different names or ownership. The legacy of WWASP serves as a cautionary tale about the potential for abuse within the troubled-teen industry.