"Be responsible for your actions and sensitive to the concerns of other visitors and land managers. ... Your reward is the opportunity to climb in one of the most beautiful areas in this part of the country." John H. Bronaugh
I have worked some with at-risk or adjudicated youth in an "adventure" setting. While I have never used rock-climbing per say, I have used a ropes course that includes a climbing tower. My impression was that it will be beneficial for some, but not for others. How's that for vague?
Kurt Hahn started Outward Bound, Petzoldt is primarily associated with NOLS of course, which he founded. Outward Bound was not his baby.
I can tell you that the perceived risk of climbing does seem to calm these kids down: "I have to do this? This looks scary! I talk big, but others might see me eat my words."
It also seems to make them pay more attention to authority: "I hate this dumbass hippy instructor, but she seems to know what she's doing. If I am to do this without getting hurt, I probably should listen a little better and be nice to her."
And it can be a real good boost to their actual self confidence, making them more prepared to actually succeed at life: "I climbed that damn thing. It was the hardest and scariest thing I've ever done! I AM a badass."
So looking at this you can see where these issues could be good for the kid or bad for the kid. The key to a successful program is someone running it who can properly help them to process the experience and turn their successes and failures into a positive learning environment. It doesn't always work that way. Not all programs are created equal. My experience has been great for the most part, but i would argue with those who thing this is a cure for all.
[size=75]i may be weak, but i have bad technique[/size]