Hazing
Introduction
Hazing is often referred to as a “team building” experience that strengthens the bonds within the members of a group. In reality, hazing is a form of victimization. It involves deliberate and planned actions that involve physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment or ridicule. Visit the Stophazing.org website for some examples of hazing.
Facts
- Hazing rituals take place everywhere but are mostly documented in schools, colleges/universities, fraternities/sororities, military units, religious cults, clubs and sports teams.
- A study of over 1500 students have illustrated that about 50% of students have experienced some forms of hazing in the past.
(Source: Canadian Red Cross)
Is this hazing?
- Does the activity involve some sort of abuse, intimidation, humiliation and degradation?
- Does it involve some risks of injury?
- Do you have the option to opt out of the activity?
- Are the senior members of the group required to do the activity as well?
- Does the activity involve substances like alcohol, drugs or other disgusting food mixes that could be potentially dangerous?
- Would you be reluctant to tell your parents, teachers, coaches or other authority figures about the activity in fear they would not approve?
- Would you approve of the activity to be photographed and posted on Facebook, Twitter, newsletters, magazines, etc?
(Source: McGill University and Stophazing.org)
Why do some people participate in hazing?
- They want to fit in and belong to the group (peer pressure);
- They don’t want to appear as “wimps” and they are scared to say no;
- It seems fun and exciting.
Why won’t people report hazing?
- They fear people won’t take them seriously;
- They fear retaliation (punishment by his peers for telling on them);
- They are embarrassed.
Need Help?
If you are a victim of hazing…
- Report it to your coaches, a teacher, a school counsellor, your parents, etc. Hazing can be a very dangerous activity and it’s not worth risking your (or someone else’s) health or life. Also, hazing is not acceptable – no one should have to be a victim of hazing.
If you suspect or know someone who is a victim of hazing…
- Report it to his/her coaches, a teacher, a school counsellor, etc. For many reasons, you friend might not want to report it him/herself, but it still has to be reported so that it does not happen again.
- Talk to your friend about the hazing. Let them know that they should not have to participate in such activities to be a part of a team or group.
What can you do… to break hazing traditions?
- Educate adults in authority (coaches, teachers, school principal, parents etc.), your peers and your community about hazing and its negative consequences.
- Start a No Hazing Policy in your school or community.
- Think of legitimate “team building” activities.
(Source: Canadian Red Cross)
