Hazing Prevention
It is incredibly important to build strong group bonds. However, there are some misguided beliefs about group bonding that can have a negative impact on individuals and group dynamics.
It is incredibly important to build strong group bonds. However, there are some misguided beliefs about group bonding that can have a negative impact on individuals and group dynamics.
Brandeis University's Rights and Responsibilities defines hazing as an activity imposed on someone joining or participating in a group that humiliates, degrades, abuses, or endangers that person physically or emotionally, regardless of the person’s desire or willingness to participate. Examples of hazing common across student groups include: forced alcohol consumption; isolation; sleep deprivation; sex acts; and humiliating or painful “initiation” ordeals involving humiliation or discipline. Not only is hazing a violation of Brandeis' Rights and Responsibilities, it is also illegal under Massachusetts state law.
Hazing can occur in any group, organization, or team, including aacademic clubs, athletic teams, club sports, honor societies, marching bands, military groups, performing arts groups, religious groups, service organizations, and social fraternities and sororities.
Some believe that it's not hazing if people were willing to participate. However, it is not possible to consent to being hazed for the following reasons:
In summary, a person cannot consent to being hazed. This is why the legal definition of hazing includes the phrase "regardless of a person's desire or willingness to participate."
When it comes to hazing, severity is subjective. We may think we can judge how harmful an action is based on what we can observe, but the internal experiences of the person being hazed varies based on their personal and cultural history. So, what might seem fairly harmless to one person could in fact be very harmful to a person who has mental health concerns, a substance use disorder, a personal or cultural trauma history, or other experiences.
We cannot assume that we know everything about a person's experience, and therefore cannot predict how an activity will impact each individual.
Some potential harms of hazing include:
Hazing a violation of Brandeis' Rights and Responsibilities. If you or someone you know is experiencing hazing, you can report it to the Department of Student Rights and Community Standards (SRCS) using the Report It form. You have the option to report anonymously, although sharing your name can be helpful. By sharing your name, staff will be able to follow up with you and connect you with other resources and supports.
If you are not sure or have questions about hazing, you can contact the SRCS staff to discuss your concerns or learn more about the conduct process.
You can also reach out to the following confidential resources for support and guidance:
There are many alternatives to hazing that actually do a better job of creating strong group bonds. Some guidelines for developing positive bonding activities include:
The Office of Health and Wellness Promotion is located in the Shapiro Campus Center, room 247.
hawp@brandeis.edu
781-736-3678