Hazing Prevention and Reporting

Reality: Read the definitions provided by Miami University, the Ohio state law regarding hazing, or the policy of your student's fraternity or sorority. Use common sense—does the activity seem to violate those definitions? If there is any feeling that it may be hazing, it probably is.

Reality: Unfortunately, this is sometimes true. But generally, most people do not want to be humiliated, intimidated, or abused.

Reality: It is these situations that frequently go too far and inflict unintended harm on others—especially when alcohol is involved. Just like speeding in a car—there are not levels of violating speed limits. You are either hazing or not.

Reality: This is the most frequent argument used by hazers and hazing organizations. The outcomes may seem to work, but there are underlying consequences. Think about how tragedy affects a group—the experience may bring individuals together, but it should not have to come through someone having to suffer.

Reality: This is the second most frequent argument used for hazing. Non-physical hazing typically involves illegal activities or mental abuse, both of which bring consequences that stay with the victims for some time.

Reality: A common misconception about hazing is consent. As with all crimes, consent is not a valid defense. Hazing is about intention. Consent typically comes through peer pressure, threats, or intentional omission of details of the proposed event.

Reality: "Tradition" does not justify hazing. Traditions are created by groups, and the groups hold the power to change the traditions. Students run fraternity and sorority chapters—not alumni.

Reality: Hazing is NOT necessary to join any group. If the argument were true, it would be required by the national organizations. The common experiences of pledging an organization is what brings a group together—NOT the type of experiences.

Reality: It is a common assumption that everyone hazes or all other groups haze. This is obviously false. Most groups that claim that they do not haze in fact do not haze. Organizations that ignore or avoid the issue during recruitment probably have something to hide or are afraid to admit to.

Most national fraternities and sororities have 6-8 week education programs that impart the history and characteristics of the organization. It’s also a time for new members to get to know other members of the group.

All national organizations and Miami prohibit the use of drugs and alcohol during these programs. Most programs culminate with an exam about the organization and a formal initiation. Typically, the initiation ritual is secret and closed to members.

Please report any activities you perceive to be harmful, unlawful, or unnecessary to joining the group, even if you are not sure. There are multiple ways to report, including anonymously.

Absolutely not. Your student signed a contract to reside on campus, and that is their only home during the school year. Fraternities and sororities may not require new members to reside in the chapter house or on the chapter floor.

“Hell Week” is a hazing practice consisting of a week of particularly high-risk activities leading up to initiation in a fraternity or sorority. Hell Weeks are strictly prohibited by Miami University and ALL national fraternity and sorority organizations recognized by Miami.

Start by asking your student to explain what they are doing to join their fraternity or sorority. Ask for a copy of the new member education program or ‘pledge program.’ Ask what a typical week is like for them. No secrets are shared during pledging, so your student should be able to share their program with you.

Also look for uncharacteristic changes in your student such as appearance, dress, behavior, etc. Have you lost contact with them for more than one day? Establish regular check-ins during this period.