“Formation” in Formation Revisited

Abstract

Identity and conscience formation and character development in adolescent boys depends upon acquiring human capital via inductive observation, imitation, and experience. Sociality and social interaction are the common denominators of male adolescent identity formation, conscience formation, and character development. Military schools create and sustain developmentally advantageous environments for adolescent boys, and military systems are remarkably effective at facilitating the ideal pairings of “best” educational principles with “best” educational practices and messages for adolescent boys. Military schools are thus exceptionally effective in the formation of the identity and conscience and development of character in adolescent boys because they provide young men with precisely the right types of atmospheres and experiences that are ideally suited to their learning styles. Military schools also enjoy significant educational advantages that allow for developmental agency, facilitate the development of “soft” skills, and help adolescent boys flourish.