Hazing

Hazing is against the law and unacceptable behavior at USF. It is a violation of the California State Law Section 245.6, Federal Law Section 485(f)(6)(A) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1092(f)(6)(A)), and the USF Code of Conduct. Hazing is defined, prohibited, and has clear penalties are in place. Any person who participates in the hazing of another, or knowingly permits hazing to be conducted shall be subject to prosecution and/or fines leading to imprisonment.

What is Hazing?

Hazing is an an act of power and control over others. Hazing is can be premeditated or accidental. It is often humiliating, abusive, degrading, often life threatening, and a fundamental violation of human dignity. It serves no purpose and it unacceptable. 

Hazing can be defined as any action or activity which does not contribute to the positive development of a person; which inflicts or intends to cause physical, emotional, mental harm or anxieties; which may demean, degrade or disgrace any person regardless of location, intent or consent of participants. Hazing can also be defined as any action or situation, which intentionally endangers a student seeking admission into or affiliation with any student organization.

For more information on how USF, California, and the Federal Government define hazing, please visit the Fogcutter, Student Handbook, Code of Conduct. 

Who Hazes and Why?

It’s a myth that hazing is primarily a problem for fraternities and sororities. Hazing is a societal problem. Hazing incidents have been documented in athletic teams, the military, religious organizations, as well as marching bands, professional schools, and other types of clubs and organizations.

Organization members who haze believe they can gain respect by threatening others. These members derive their self-worth and self-image by exerting power and suppressing others. Hazers are never the true leaders of the organization. In fact, hazers will eventually cause the downfall of your organization.

Organizations who simply do nothing about the members who haze, assume responsibility for perpetuating a “hazing culture.”

Reporting

If you believe you are a victim of hazing or know of instances of hazing involving USF students, you should report this information to the Hazing Incident Reporting Form. Once submitted, appropriate staff members will contact those who may be victims and connect them with appropriate resources before a formal inquiry is launched.