Hazing, or actions required for membership in a group that could intentionally or recklessly cause physical or mental harm, includes a spectrum of behaviors and might not look like you expect it to. Hazing can happen either to start or to maintain membership, and is never acceptable, even if the target participates willingly.
In honor of National Hazing Prevention Week (September 22-26), we’re providing some tips (adapted from Washington State University) to help you recognize the signs of hazing:
- Power imbalance and control: Senior members exert control over newer members and create an atmosphere of fear and submission
- Secrecy and exclusivity: Sections of the group seem cagey about their activities and keep members separate from each other, creating an “us versus them” mentality
- Reliance on tradition as justification: The group justifies the behaviors as tradition or rites of passage, and resists attempts to change.
- Humiliating or degrading activities: Members are given degrading, humiliating, or dangerous tasks to perform, often accompanied by verbal abuse.
- Emotional abuse: The group subjects members to emotional manipulation including public humiliation, ostracism, or constant criticism.
If you or someone you know is experiences hazing, we encourage you to share so we can provide support and address the issue. These are your best on-campus resources:
- Associate Dean of Student Affairs (Kristen Tobin)
- A member of the Title IX team
- A staff member in CAPA
- Confidential Resource Provider (Simone Jadczak)
