Misconceptions of Hazing

Hazing ≠ Team Unity
Hazing ≠ Brotherhood
Hazing ≠ Fellowship
Hazing ≠ Strength
Hazing ≠ Honor
Hazing ≠ Dignity
Hazing ≠ Respect

Myth #1: Hazing is a problem for fraternities and sororities primarily.
Fact: Hazing is a societal problem. Hazing incidents have been frequently documented in the military, athletic teams, marching bands, religious cults, professional schools and other types of clubs and/or, organizations. Reports of hazing activities in high schools are on the rise.

Myth #2: Hazing is no more than foolish pranks that sometimes go awry.
Fact: Hazing is an act of power and control over others --- it is victimization.

Myth #3: As long as there's no malicious intent, a little hazing should be O.K.
Fact: Even if there's no malicious "intent" safety may still be a factor in traditional hazing activities that are considered to be "all in good fun." For example, serious accidents have occurred during scavenger hunts and kidnapping trips. Besides, what purpose do such activities serve in promoting the growth and development of group team members?

Myth #4: Hazing is an effective way to teach respect and develop discipline.
Fact: First of all, respect must be EARNED--not taught. Victims of hazing rarely report having respect for those who have hazed them. Just like other forms of victimization, hazing breeds mistrust, apathy and alienation.

Myth #5: If someone agrees to participate in an activity, it can't be considered hazing.
Fact: In states that have laws against hazing consent of the victim can't be used as a defense in a civil suit. This is because even if someone agrees to participate in a potentially hazardous action it may not be true consent when considering the peer pressure and desire to belong to the group.

Does hazing work?
No. Hazing rituals serve to create negative feelings from the person being hazed towards their “hazers” and the hazing rituals that are “meant” to instill unity

What if nobody is supposed to get hurt?
Even if there's no malicious "intent" safety may still be a factor in traditional hazing activities that are considered to be "all in good fun.”
Not all hazing behaviors are life threatening but an accumulation of “benign” activities can place a student in a dangerous position.

But it’s been a tradition with the organization for years!
Hazing is against the law and a violation of University policy.

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