Define hazing

Sarah Muller

Hazing is constantly seen in the news, however the definition is broader than most think.

The official definition of hazing from the Office of Judicial Affairs is: “Hazing is any intentional, knowing or reckless action, request or creation of circumstances that: endangers the health or safety of any individual, causes or presents a substantial risk of physical injury, serious mental distress, or personal humiliation to any individual, or involves the destruction or removal of public or private property in connection with initiation or admission into, or continued membership in, any group affiliated with the university, including but not limited to, any student, campus, fraternal, academic, honorary, athletic, or military organization. It is not a defense to the violation of this section that the hazing participant provided explicit or implied consent. Apathy or acquiescence in the presence of hazing are not neutral acts; they are violations.”