“Hazing is any activity expected of someone joining or participating in a group that humiliates, degrades, abuses, or endangers them regardless of a person’s willingness to participate.” – (Allan & Madden, 2008).
It is against the law for student organizations to conduct any activities which involve “hazing.” Violations may result in loss of registration as a student organization, action by the Center for Student Conduct, or referral to local law enforcement agencies
When does an activity cross the line into hazing? The following three components are key to understanding hazing:
- Group context: Associated with the process for joining and maintaining membership in a group.
- Abusive behavior: Activities that are potentially humiliating and degrading, with potential to cause physical, psychological and/or emotional harm.
- Regardless of an individual’s willingness to participate: The “choice” to participate may be offset by the peer pressure and coercive/power dynamics that often exist in the context of gaining membership in a group.
Circumstances in which pressure or coercion exist impede true consent.