Defining and Recognizing Hazing

Hazing isn’t one action or another; it’s a whole spectrum of behaviors. Hazing includes any act committed as part of joining a group that causes, or is likely to cause, bodily danger or physical harm, or psychological or emotional harm, regardless of the person's willingness to participate. Hazing can take many forms, and it may not look like what you’re expecting.

If you’re not sure if something is hazing, try asking yourself the following questions: 

  • Would I feel uncomfortable with this activity if my family were watching? 
  • Does this activity violate any WSU or organizational standards or codes of conduct? 
  • Is this activity illegal? 
  • Does this activity cause participants emotional, physical, or mental distress? 

If you answered yes to any of these questions, please make a report to the university.

Some examples of hazing include:

Hazing Spectrum

  • Intimidation
    • Social isolation
    • Using demeaning names for initiates and demanding titles (Ms., Mr.) for existing members
    • Assigning meaningless or impossible tasks
    • Requiring new members to carry specific items at all times
    • Deceptions
    • Behavior and/or activities that reinforce power differentials

    Intimidation behaviors are often low in severity but high in frequency.

  • Harassment
    • Verbal abuse, yelling
    • Threats or implied threats
    • Sleep deprivation
    • Requiring "pranks" such as stealing from or harassing another organization
    • Skit nights with degrading or humiliating acts
    • Requiring new members to perform services for existing members (cleaning, errands)

    Harassment behaviors are often of medium severity and frequency. 

  • Violence
    • Physical abuse
    • Sexual abuse
    • Forced consumption of alcohol, drugs, and/or disgusting substances
    • Abductions and/or limiting someone's ability to leave a situation or place
    • Bondage
    • Total or partial nudity

    Violent behaviors are high in severity but typically low in frequency.

Markers of Hazing

Recognizing the signs of hazing can be challenging, especially because it often occurs within the context of group traditions or initiation rituals. Leaders need to be vigilant and aware of the markers of hazing to effectively prevent and address such behaviors. Here are some common signs and markers of hazing that leaders should be aware of:

Power Imbalance and Control:

  • Hierarchical Structure: Hazing often involves a hierarchical structure where senior members exert control and power over newer members.
  • Excessive Control: Leaders excessively control or micromanage certain members, creating an environment of fear and submission.

Secrecy and Exclusivity:

  • Secretive Behavior: Hazing activities are often conducted in secret, away from the eyes of authority figures. Leaders should be suspicious of secretive behavior within the group.
  • Exclusive Groups: New members are kept separate from the rest of the group, creating an "us vs. them" mentality.

Reliance on Tradition as Justification:

  • "It's Tradition" Argument: Hazing activities are often justified by claiming they are traditions or rituals, making it difficult for members to question their validity.
  • Resistant to Change: The group resists any attempts to change or modify existing traditions, even if they are harmful.

Reluctance to Discuss Activities:

  • Avoidance of Questions: Members are evasive or defensive when asked about group activities or rituals.
  • Fear of Retribution: Initiates or junior members are afraid to report hazing due to fear of retaliation from senior members.

Humiliation and Degrading Activities:

  • Humiliating Tasks: As a rite of passage, initiates are given degrading, humiliating, or dangerous tasks to perform.
  • Verbal Abuse: Verbal abuse, name-calling, or derogatory language used to belittle or demean new members.

Physical and Emotional Stress:

  • Physical Exhaustion: Initiates are subjected to physical exhaustion through excessive exercise, lack of sleep, or other strenuous activities.
  • Emotional Stress: Emotional manipulation, such as public humiliation, ostracism, or constant criticism, is used to induce stress.

Unexplained Injuries or Behavior Changes:

  • Physical Signs: Unexplained injuries, bruises, or other physical signs of abuse among new members.
  • Behavioral Changes: Sudden changes in behavior, mood, or academic performance among group members.