Hazing
Hazing is “any action taken or any situation created intentionally that causes embarrassment, harassment or ridicule and risks emotional and/or physical harm to members of a group or team, whether new or not, regardless of the person’s willingness to participate.”
Hazing is a criminal offense in 45 states.
Alcohol plays a significant role in many hazing incidents. Forcing or pressuring a new member or recruit to drink or take drugs is a form of hazing. Alcohol and/or other drug use can lead to severe hazing practices. The intoxicated hazer may act more aggressively and the intoxicated student who is being hazed may not understand the danger they’re in.
In a study of national fraternities, alcohol played a role in 95% of falls from high places and 87% of automobile accidents among fraternity members. Alcohol use was present in 80% of injuries causing paralysis and nearly 90% of deaths.
Hazing organizers may not be aware of a person’s history with alcohol. A member may have had an abusive parent, death in family, or prior incident where alcohol played a role. This new member may not know their own risk factors for alcohol abuse.
A study from Harvard School of Public Health shows that 6% of college students meet criteria for a diagnosis of alcohol dependence (alcoholism). Forcing a person to drink may trigger relapse and long-term negative consequences for the drinker.
Fraternities and sororities recognize that too many people have been hurt or died as a result of hazing incidents and 21 international Greek organizations have joined together to establish a Greek Anti-Hazing Hotline.
The toll-free number is 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293). The line is available to those who are victims of hazing or know of a hazing incident. Callers may remain anonymous.