How to stop hazing?

Once again, Greek life at American colleges is under scrutiny – this time after the death of a 20-year-old fraternity pledge at Florida State University. FSU has suspended Greek activities.

In Pennsylvania, Penn State students are being charged in the death of a pledge.

Anti-hazing advocates estimate that half of all students who participate in athletics or clubs will face some kind of hazing, be it excessive drinking, sleep deprivation or public and private embarrassment.

Are charges and suspensions of fraternities enough to stop destructive behaviors that have become routine, and sometimes deadly?

Hazing Red Flags

Possible Warning Signs of Hazing, According to Elizabeth Allan, Director, National Hazing Prevention Consortium

“Red Flags” That May Indicate That A Person Has Experienced Hazing:

-Changes in behavior and communication that may correspond with the timing of a person becoming involved with an organization

-Disrupted patterns of behavior: Not attending classes, becoming difficult to reach, not eating as usual, only associating with certain people

-Describes activities that would meet the definition of hazing, but refers to them as “traditions” or “initiations”

-Symptoms of depression

-Unusual photos posted on Facebook

“Red Flags” That May Indicate Hazing In Organizations Or Institutions:

-Recent official reports and conduct cases on hazing

-Reputation for hazing

-Information about induction process not discussed publicly

-Lack of clear, accessible leadership statement on hazing

-Limited organizational transparency regarding hazing incidents

-No or minimal information on hazing presented to members and students at orientation, college residential assistant trainings, etc.

-No or minimal information on hazing presented to community members, including alumni, parents and schools

-No committee, task force or group established to coordinate hazing prevention efforts