Hazing

Any act that willfully or recklessly endangers the mental, emotional, or physical health and/or safety of any student or other person for the purpose of initiation, admission into, affiliation with, or continued membership in any group regardless of the person’s consent to participate. This includes, but is not limited to:

1. Brutality of a physical nature including, but not limited to, paddling, whipping, beating, branding, forced calisthenics, and/or exposure to the elements.
2. Coerced consumption of, including, but not limited to, any food, alcoholic beverage, liquid, drug, or any other substance that subjects a person to an unreasonable risk of harm.
3. Acts intended to cause mental stress including, but not limited to, sleep deprivation, transportation and/or abandonment, confinement, forced exclusion from social contact, forced contact that could reasonably result in embarrassment, or any activity that is designed to shame and/or humiliate.
4. Coerced activities including, but not limited to, violation of any laws; violation of University policies, rules, or regulations, and personal servitude.
5. Failing to intervene, prevent, discourage, and/or report acts of hazing.

All students are subject to the following act of the Massachusetts Legislature (General Court) which makes hazing a crime. Action may be initiated for alleged violation(s) of this act under applicable sections of the Code of Student Conduct. Students may also be subject to lawsuits by victims of hazing.

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives in General Court assembled, and by the authority of the same, as follows:

Chapter 269 of the General Laws is hereby amended by striking out sections 17 to 19, inclusive, and inserting in place thereof the following three sections:
 

Section 17.

Penalty
Whoever is a principal organizer or participant in the crime of hazing, as defined herein, shall be punished by a fine of not more than three thousand dollars or by imprisonment in a house of correction for not more than one year, or both such fine and imprisonment.

Definition
The term "hazing" as used in this section and in sections eighteen and nineteen, shall mean any conduct or method of initiation into any student organization, whether on public or private property, which willfully or recklessly endangers the physical or mental health of any student or other person. Such conduct shall include whipping, beating, branding, forced calisthenics, exposure to the weather, forced consumption of any food, liquor, beverage, drug, or other substance, or any other brutal treatment or forced physical activity which is likely to adversely affect the physical health or safety of any such student or other person, or which subjects such student or other person to extreme mental stress, including extended deprivation of sleep or rest or extended isolation.

Notwithstanding any other provisions of this section to the contrary, consent shall not be available as a defense to any prosecution under this action.
 

Section 18.

Duty to report
Whoever knows that another person is the victim of hazing as defined in section seventeen and is at the scene of such crime shall, to the extent that such person can do so without danger or peril to him/herself or others, report such crime to an appropriate law enforcement official as soon as reasonably practicable. Whoever fails to report such crime shall be punished by a fine of not more than one thousand dollars.
 

Section 19.

Notice
Each institution of secondary education and each public and private institution of post secondary education shall issue to every student group, student team or student organization which is part of such institution or is recognized by the institution or permitted by the institution to use its name or facilities or is known by the institution to exist as an unaffiliated student group, student team or student organization, a copy of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen; provided, however, that an institution's compliance with this section's requirements that an institution issue copies of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen to un-affiliated student groups, teams or organizations shall not constitute evidence of the institution's recognition or endorsement of said unaffiliated student groups, teams or organizations.

Each such group, team or organization shall distribute a copy of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen to each of its members, plebes, pledges or applicants for membership. It shall be the duty of each such group, team or organization, acting through its designated officer, to deliver annually, to the institution an attested acknowledgement stating that such group, team or organization has received a copy of this section and said sections seventeen and eighteen, that each of its members, plebes, pledges, or applicants has received a copy of sections seventeen and eighteen, and that such group, team or organization understands and agrees to comply with the provisions of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen.

Each institution of secondary education and each public or private institution of post secondary education shall, at least annually, before or at the start of enrollment, deliver to each person who enrolls as a full time student in such institution a copy of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen.

Each institution of secondary education and each public or private institution of post secondary education shall file, at least annually, a report with the regents of higher education and in the case of secondary institutions, the board of education, certifying that such institution has complied with its responsibility to inform student groups, teams or organizations and to notify each full time student enrolled by it of the provisions of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen and also certifying that said institution has adopted a disciplinary policy with regard to the organizers and participants of hazing, and that such policy has been set forth with appropriate emphasis in the student handbook or similar means of communicating the institution's policies to its students. The board of regents and, in the case of secondary institutions, the board of education shall promulgate regulations governing the content and frequency of such reports, and shall forthwith report to the attorney general any such institution which fails to make such report.

Approved January 5, 1988.

Hazing can be subtle, harassing, or violent in nature. It can manifest itself in the form of physical violence, forced physical activities, or psychological and/or emotional harm, which can be violations of Massachusetts law. If you're not sure whether or not something happening to you or to someone else is hazing, ask yourself these questions:

• Would I feel comfortable participating in this activity if my parents were watching?
• Would we get in trouble if a college administrator or faculty walked by and saw us?
• Am I being asked to keep these activities a secret?
• Am I doing anything illegal?
• Does participation in this activity violate my values or those of this organization?
• Is this causing emotional or physical distress or stress to myself or to others?
   

Examples of Hazing

Although it is impossible to list all possible hazing behaviors because many are context-specific, the list below provides some common examples of hazing behaviors.

• Cutting, branding, requiring tattoos, labeling, or shaving of parts of the body
• Required “greeting” of members in a specific manner when seen on campus
• Required walking in groups to class, events, etc.
• Required carrying of certain items
• Loss of voice due to having to yell
• Performing of special tasks for the members or others (cleaning a group's living/meeting area, airport pick-ups, serving as designated driver at all hours of the day and night, etc.)
• Required attendance at late night work sessions, resulting in sleep deprivation
• Not coming home for days or weeks at a time
• Forced consumption of alcohol and/or misuse of substances
• Forced consumption of food substances
• Requiring attire which is not appropriate or embarrassing
• Giving short notice for an unscheduled required meeting or event
• Surrendering of personal property, keys, cell phones, laptops, etc.
• Physical exposure or abuse (nudity, paddling, pushing, shoving, hitting, punching, tackling, or throwing any substance at another person or submerging or dunking individuals in water or other substances).
• Being dropped off at an unknown location and made to find the way back to campus

Sources:
StopHazing.org
InsideHazing.com
HazingPrevention.org

If hazing is occurring, it needs to be reported. UMass Amherst’s ability to investigate reported incidents, enforce the University’s expectation, and protect future students depends on the detailed information provided. Individuals submitting a report are encouraged to provide as much specific detail as possible so that appropriate action can be taken to address the reported behavior.

If you need immediate assistance, please call the University of Massachusetts Police Department (UMPD) at 413-545-2121.

All UMass faculty and staff are required by state law to report any and all forms of hazing that they witness, become aware of, or are informed of. UMass faculty and staff must inform the Student Conduct and Community Standards Office of any potential hazing incident and can do so via the Student Conduct Referral Online Form.

A hazing incident may be reported by anyone; a person who the activity directly affected, a person who was involved in the incident; faculty/staff, parents, friends, or community members. If you have witnessed or have knowledge of a possible hazing incident, please report it.

Myth: The definition is so vague that anything can be considered hazing — it's really open to interpretation.

Reality: Read the definition and then ask yourself the following questions:

• Does the activity involve mental distress such as humiliation or intimidation?
• Does it involve physical abuse (e.g., sleep deprivation)?
• Is there a significant risk of injury or a question of safety?
• Would you have any reservations describing the activity to your parents or a university official?
• Is alcohol involved?
• Would you be worried if the activity was shown on the evening news?

If the answer to any of the above questions is "Yes," the activity is probably hazing.

Myth: New members want to be hazed.

Reality: Occasionally there are new members who say they want to be hazed. But generally most do not want to be humiliated, intimidated, or physically abused. "Wanting" to be hazed usually means desiring an intense, challenging experience. It is not necessary to haze new members in order to challenge them.

Myth: Hazing is a problem for fraternities and sororities primarily.

Reality: Hazing is a societal problem. Hazing incidents have been frequently documented in the military, athletic teams, marching bands, religious cults, professional schools and other types of clubs and/or, organizations. Reports of hazing activities in high schools are on the rise.

Myth: Hazing only "a little bit" is not really that bad.

Reality: While there are more and less severe forms of hazing, even low level hazing crosses the line. Even a "little" hazing can have an unintended negative impact on new members. And if the action meets the definition of hazing, the group will get in trouble if caught.

Myth: Hazing builds unity among new members.

Reality: Hazing may create unity among new members, but often there are costs as well (see Arguments For and Against Hazing). The effect of hazing on a group can be like the effect of a hurricane on a community: residents feel closer to each other afterward but some may be suffering. Would anyone suggest that it is good for a community to be hit by a hurricane?

Myth: Hazing is the only method for holding new members accountable.

Reality: While holding new members accountable may be important, there are effective ways to do so without hazing. Effective parents, teachers, and bosses all know ways to hold others accountable without humiliating, degrading or physically hurting them. These skills can be learned.

Myth: Hazing is no more than foolish pranks that sometimes go awry.

Reality: Hazing is an act of power and control over others—it is victimization. Hazing is pre-meditated and NOT accidental. Hazing is abusive, degrading and often life-threatening.

Myth: Hazing is an effective way to teach respect and develop discipline.

Reality: First of all, respect must be EARNED—not taught. Victims of hazing rarely report having respect for those who have hazed them. Just like other forms of victimization, hazing breeds mistrust, apathy and alienation.

Myth: Hazing is okay as long as it is not physically dangerous.

Reality: Mental hazing can be brutal and leave lasting psychological scars. Some hazing victims report that the mental hazing they endured was worse than being physically abused.

Myth: Hazing is a way to improve the attitude and character of a new member.

Reality: Hazing often generates anger and resentment. Plus it teaches that "values" such as deception, coercion, and intimidation are acceptable means for achieving your goals.

Myth: A little hazing should be okay, as long as there's no mean-spirited or injurious intent.

Reality: Regardless of intent, some group bonding activities designed to be "all in good fun" still may raise some serious safety concerns." For example, serious accidents have occurred during scavenger hunts. And when members are drunk, they sometimes subject the new members to more than they originally intended.

Myth: Hazing continues because everyone in the group supports it.

Reality: Many group members may not approve of hazing but go along with the activity because they mistakenly believe everyone else agrees with it. This "reign of error" helps to perpetuate hazing. The strongest supporters of hazing are often the most vocal and dominant members.

Myth: If someone agrees to participate in an activity, it can't be considered hazing.

Reality: In states that have laws against hazing, consent of the victim can't be used as a defense. This is because even if someone agrees to participate in a potentially hazardous action, it may not be true consent because of peer pressure, intentional or unintentional threats, and the withholding of information about what will occur.

Myth: Since alumni and current members were hazed it is only fair that the new members go through it too.

Reality: "Tradition" does not justify subjecting new members to abuse. Traditions are created by groups, and groups hold the power to change or eliminate them. It only takes one year to break a hazing tradition. Remember that the founding members of organizations were not hazed.

Myth: Eliminating hazing makes an organization just like any other social club. It will be too easy to become a member.

Reality: Hazing is not necessary for an initiation experience to be challenging and unique. A well-organized, creative program will build group cohesion and foster character development. Any group can haze new members - that's the easy way out. It takes vision and commitment to run a good, non-hazing program.

Myth: Enduring hazing is a sign of strength.

Reality: While it does take a certain strength to make it through hazing, many people submit to it because they desire acceptance by others, are afraid to resist, or feel a need to prove to themselves or others that they are worthy or tough enough (e.g., "a real man"). These motives reflect conformity, fear and insecurity, which are not qualities typically associated with strength. In contrast, standing up to a group of abusive peers or breaking free from hazing takes courage. That's real strength.

Myth: Hazing is really just a prank that goes wrong.

Reality: Accidents can happen during hazing, but hazing is not accidental. It is premeditated abuse that can be emotionally traumatic, physically dangerous, or even life-threatening.

Myth: Hazing practices preserve the uniqueness and exclusiveness of the group.

Reality: Since hazing practices are secret, group members often don't realize that their "unique" practices are typically variations on common themes: extensive memorization with verbal abuse for incorrect answers, sleep deprivation, servitude, kidnappings, drinking rituals, calisthenics, lineups, cleaning up messes, isolation of members, theft, impossible games, sexual embarrassment, inappropriate clothing, absurd scavenger hunts, unpalatable food, and physical violence.

Myth: Other groups on campus will not respect an organization that does not haze.

Reality: A positive, educational program will result in a better all-around organization and the ability to attract the best new members. Being able to recruit the best students will earn the respect of other groups.

Myth: Hazing only exists in fraternities and sororities.

Reality: Hazing incidents have occurred across the country in athletic teams, military units, performing arts groups, religious groups, and other types of clubs and organizations. Hazing occurs in high schools as well as on college campuses.

Source: Stophazing.org

For the Person Being Hazed

The media is full of stories reporting one of the worst possible consequences of hazing: death. While death is a horrendous possible outcome, there are far more examples of less severe but still life-altering consequences. One study has shown that 71% of those who are hazed suffer from negative consequences. These consequences may include but are not limited to:

• Physical, emotional, and/or mental instabilities
• Physical exhaustion from multiple sit ups, running, or other calisthenics
• Appearance of mental exhaustion or withdrawal from normal lifestyle; change in personality
• Appearance of sadness or expressions of inferiority
• Personal health may suffer
• Personal finances may suffer
• Sleep deprivation
• Loss of sense of control and empowerment
• Decline in grades and coursework
• Relationships with friends, significant others, and family suffer
• Post-traumatic stress syndrome
• Loss of respect for and interest in being part of the organization
• Erosion of trust within the group members
• Illness or hospitalization with additional effects on family and friends

Those who are leading or participating in the hazing may unintentionally trigger the memory of a traumatic event in the victim’s past that could result in devastating consequences. Someone who has been hazed is more likely to haze others in the future.
 

For the Person Doing the Hazing

Those who are accused of engaging in the hazing behaviors may face:

• Legal actions up to and including jail time and fines:
  • The state of Massachusetts enacted an anti–hazing law in 1985. Those who are accused of engaging in hazing behaviors may face legal actions up to and including jail time and fines of not more than $3,000. In addition, victims of hazing may pursue monetary damage in civil court from individuals and groups involved.
• College discipline:
  • The Code of Student Conduct prohibits hazing. Those who are found responsible for hazing face sanctions which may result in a separation from the University (suspension or expulsion).
• Personal impact:
  • ​In addition to being accountable to the organization, the university, the state criminal process, and civil litigation, those that haze may experience the following:
    • Decline in grades and coursework
    • Possible separation from the university
    • Damaged relationships with friends, significant others, and family
    • Loss of connection to alums through the organization
    • Media scrutiny
    • Damage to one's personal reputation
    • Warped sense of leadership
    • Feelings of shame and guilt
       

For the Organization Doing the Hazing

By participating in hazing, not only are individuals affected, but the organization also suffers. Individuals and their organization are accountable to the national and/or international offices (if applicable) as well as institutional and local governing boards. In addition to the organization being shut down, the following outcomes may result when members of an organization participate in hazing:

• Loss of reputation within the UMass Amherst community and the national community
• Loss of recognition for the organization and/or other privileges revoked
• Civil damages may be levied against the organization
• Organizational officers may be held responsible
• A gradual erosion of the true meaning and values of the organization

In addition to support from the Student Conduct and Community Standards Office, the following are other campus resources that are available to assist and support you:

• Center for Counseling and Psychological Health (CCPH)
  Middlesex House
  Phone: 413-545-2337
  Emergency on-call services, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
• University Health Services
  150 Infirmary Way
  Phone: 413-577-5000
• Center for Health Promotion
  150 Infirmary Way (3rd Floor)
  Phone: 413-577-5181
• Athletics
  308 Mullins Center
  Phone: 413-545-9652
• Student Engagement and Leadership
  Student Union Building
  Phone: 413-545-3600
• Office of Sorority and Fraternity Life
  Student Union Building
  Phone: 413-545-3600
• Student Legal Services Office
  922 Campus Center
  Phone: 413-545-1995
• Dean of Students Office
  227 Whitmore Administration Building
  Phone: 413-545-2684

National Resources

• Stophazing.org
  The mission of StopHazing is to promote safe school, campus and organizational climates through research, information sharing and the development of data-driven strategies for hazing prevention.
• Insidehazing.com
  The mission of InsideHazing is to provide methods of prevention and intervention in hazing; to explain the psychology of hazing in high school, college, the military, and the workplace. Educational information is included for use in anti-hazing initiatives among fraternities, sororities, teams, and other groups.
• Hazingprevention.org
  The mission of HazingPrevention.Org™ is to empower people to prevent hazing.
• Greek Anti-Hazing Hotline
  The Hotline provides an anonymous telephone line for anyone to report a suspected or recent hazing incident to one number 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293) that accepts calls 24 hours a day.
• NCAA Health and Safety Website