What is Hazing?The definition of hazing includes acts that embarrass, humiliate, degrade or ridicule. Unfortunately, hazing is a rite that can often begin as early as elementary school yard bullying. The act of hazing is not a subjective one or open to subjective interpretation.
Is hazing just a problem for fraternities and sororities?
Hazing takes place across all different types of groups. There have been incidences of hazing at universities with athletic teams, sport clubs, intramural teams, religious groups, social clubs, student organizations and marching bands. It is not a problem exclusive to fraternities and sororities.
As long as nobody is physically harmed, a little playful hazing is okay, right?
Hazing isn't just a physical act. Hazing includes the undue mental stress from sleep deprivation, forced exclusion from social contact, forced contact which could result in embarrassment, or any other activity that could adversely affect the mental health or dignity of the individual.
How Do I Report Hazing?
To report a dangerous situation that is underway, call 9-1-1 or 850-599-3256 for immediate police response. The National Anti-Hazing Hotline toll-free number is 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293).
What are some warning signs that someone is being hazed?
All existing university sanctioned organizations are required to amend their existing by-laws to include an anti-hazing section, and all future university sanctioned organizations must include the same in their by-laws. A copy of the by-laws shall be kept on file in the Office of Student Activities. Advisors and each member of a university sanctioned organization must attend one Fall semester and one Spring semester hazing workshop each academic year.