Educational and treatment programs for troubled youth face formidable barriers in building pro-social group climates. When a youth is loyal to deviant peers, positive adult bonds are obstructed. Fritz Redl once observed that therapeutic efforts with such a youth is akin to having a "gang under the couch." Effective ecological interventions employ effective strategies for developing helpful peer groups. This article summarizes the ecological principles of Re-Education programs and describes various strategies for using groups to foster positive growth. There is evidence that positive group bonds can support other treatment efforts and enhance the competence of troubled youth.