Sometimes the kids involved in the Scared Straight programs learn something from it. Sometimes they gain some quick humility and perspective. And other times they have so much pride and defiance, that it just seems like nothing will get through to them. Ashley was one of those latter kids on "Beyond Scared Straight" (Thu., 10 p.m. EST on A&E).
She was arrogant and disrespectful to the end, proudly making every interaction between her and the officers at the jail a struggle. A thing as simple as mealtime she turned into an ordeal by refusing to clean her plate. When the officer threw the food on the floor and threatened to dump another tray on her if she didn't clean it up, Ashley responded, "You better dump it on me then."
Even after he tasked two other kids to clean up the mess because of her, she was still trying to goad him. It was as if she wanted him to lose control and hit her. While he was giving orders, she muttered, "Shut up, Piggy." It was just loud enough to be heard.
But while she was being defiant and arrogant in her tone and actions, her face and expressions told another story. It looked like she was acting more out of fear and discomfort than genuine cockiness. She was clearly uncomfortable, but that only made her more defiant. No showing weakness allowed.
The program appears to have had at least some impact on her, as she's given up smoking, drinking and selling drugs. But she still "reps her hood" and self-identifies as part of her gang.
Get "Beyond Scared Straight" every Thursday night at 10 p.m. EST on A&E.
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