FAQ

The UCF Rules of Conduct defines hazing as any action or situation which recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health and/or safety of a student for the purpose of initiation or admission into, or affiliation with, any organization operating under registration with the University. Hazing is further defined at the following link under Rule 7.

While the anecdotal and media reports of hazing of a generation ago may have been glorified in popular culture, hazing has been a serious issue for a long time and recent court cases have brought to light the legal ramifications of not addressing the behavior that has caused harm to so many victims. The law has shown that the burden of liability can rest not only with the individual that commits the act of hazing, but with club leadership, advisors, university staff and the university as a whole. The absence of action against hazing can legally be.

Hazing takes place across all different types of groups. There have been incidences of hazing at universities with varsity athletic teams, sport clubs, intramural teams, religious groups, social clubs, student organizations, and marching bands. It is not a problem exclusive to fraternities and sororities.

Hazing isn't just a physical act. Hazing includes the undue mental stress from sleep deprivation, forced exclusion from social contact, forced contact which could result in embarrassment, or any other activity that could adversely affect the mental health or dignity of the individual.

The consent of the victim is not an adequate legal defense for hazing cases. This is due to the peer pressure that is usually exerted, whether explicit or not. The risk of harm is usually not weighed by the victim as they are trying to please the group as a whole.

Even though there might not be an intention to do harm, serious accidents have occurred during activities that "were only in good fun." These cases constitute hazing, regardless of the outcome.

You can find more information on reporting hazing on our Report Hazing page.

Yes, you are not required to provide your personally identifiable information when submitting an incident report.

Several online resources exist as well as departments on campus to assist your organizations efforts in hazing prevention education. You can check out our collection of resources for more information.