Hazing Essay, Research Paper

Hazing has been known as the right of passage into American colleges in the past and even still today. Primarily in fraternities hazing has been more so a problem than any other organization. The definition, application, and the prevention of hazing have been on going problems in past years and are still, in some areas are still problems.

The definition of hazing is to harass by exacting unnecessary or disagreeable work. The definition as it is, seems to be too vague and has too many loop holes which can lead to unforseen consequences. If the definition were to read: any act that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student, or that destroys or removes public or private property, for the purpose of initiation, admission into, affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership in a group or organization. The definition would cover more ground and leave less room probable mishaps. The definition of hazing needs to be further researched and applied.

If the definition is applied further in the means of consequences; the hazing would affect the pledges as well as the actives. These consequences, when applied to the actives, would deter from further hazing practices. These consequences would have to be as sever as 180 days up to two years in jail and $1,000 to $10,000 in fines. The acts of senseless abuse and misjudgement must be prevented in future instances.

More organizations such as CHUCK (the Coalition to Halt Useless College Killings) are a must in colleges, universities, schools, and in communities to promote awareness to this subject. The more knowledge that is shared; the more ramifications will be known and seen through consequences. The less of senseless hazing the better for all. Consequences will play a major roll in the elimination of hazing in today society.

The definition, application, and the prevention of hazing have been on going problems in past years and are still, in some areas are still problems. American colleges in the past and even still today continue to use hazing as a right of passage into fraternities and sororities.