PATRICIA NAVARRO
X-ARCHIMEDES
UNDERSTANDING HAZING: A SOCIAL PROBLEM
Hazing is any action or circumstance, whether on or off campus, intended to
cause physical or mental discomfort, embarrassment, harassment, or
mockery is referred to as hazing. Any physical brutality, such as beatings,
whippings, branding, forced calisthenics, exposure to the elements, forced
ingestion of food, alcohol, drugs, or other substances, or any other forced
physical activity that could cause physical harm or mental stress to the
individual, such as sleep deprivation, forced exclusion from social
situations, forced behavior that could cause extreme embarrassment, or any
other forced activity that could negatively impact the individual's mental
health or dignity, are all considered forms of hazing. Forced or compelled
activities that lead to severe fatigue and physical and psychological harm,
are among the forbidden activities; involve kidnapping; entail morally
dubious quests, treasure hunts, scavenger hunts, or any similar activities;
entail wearing clothing in public that is ostentatious and not generally in
good taste; incite students to participate in public antics and buffoonery;
involve late-night activities that interfere with academic pursuits. Any
actions that violate this Code of Conduct, applicable local, state, or federal
laws, or recognized standards of appropriateness or good taste are also
forbidden. For the purposes of this definition, any conduct listed in this
paragraph that is contingent in any way on membership in or admittance
into an organization is deemed to be "forced or coerced," regardless of the
individual's willingness to engage in such an activity.
Hazing can be difficult to define. Depending on where you are, there are
different laws and policies. The following elements are shared by all
definitions: the power difference between members of the group and those
who wish to join it (e.g., new recruits for a team or prospective members of
an organization). Power disparity between more senior and sophomore
members of a fraternity or sorority, for example, or between younger and
older group members. deliberate initiation rituals, customs, or "traditions"
that are observed. Hazing frequently happens when a "tradition" is
prohibited by law, violates a university policy, or is carried out without
advisers' or officials' consent. Participation does not release one party from
accountability. Members of an organization with less experience frequently
lack the confidence to refuse invitations even when they know they
shouldn't participate in hazing practices.
Regards with hazing, bullying is also involved with this topic. Government
and schools established several laws for anti-hazing and anti-bullying to
prevent suicidal attempts since it is increasing year by year.
Anti-bullying and anti-hazing campaigns have become increasingly
prevalent in schools and communities in recent years. This is a positive
development as both bullying and hazing can have serious consequences for
those involved. Bullying can cause emotional and psychological distress,
while hazing can lead to physical harm and sometimes even death. It is
important that we take a strong stance against these behaviors and work to
prevent them from happening in the first place.
One way to combat bullying and hazing is through education. Students need
to understand the harmful effects of these behaviors and how they can be
prevented. Schools can implement anti-bullying and anti-hazing programs
that teach students about respect, empathy, and the importance of treating
others with kindness. Parents and educators can also have open and honest
conversations with children about bullying and hazing, making sure they
understand the impact of their actions on others. By educating students and
raising awareness about these issues, we can create a safer and more
inclusive environment for everyone.
In conclusion, it is important that we all take responsibility for creating a
safe and welcoming environment for all individuals. By promoting respect,
empathy, and kindness, we can prevent bullying and hazing from occurring
in our schools and communities. It is up to all of us to work together to put
an end to these harmful behaviors and ensure that everyone feels valued
and respected. Let us all work together to create a world where bullying
and hazing are not tolerated, and everyone feels safe and supported.
