ASU Hazing Prevention
Arizona State University is committed to providing a safe educational environment for everyone and prohibits hazing because of its potential detrimental effects on students’ academic pursuits and mental, emotional and physical health. ASU students should expect all student organizations to treat them with respect and dignity. Hazing has no place in the Sun Devil experience or student organization culture.
What is hazing?
"Hazing" means either (a) any intentional, knowing or reckless act committed by a student, whether individually, or in concert with other persons, against another person, in connection with an initiation into, an affiliation with, or the maintenance of membership in any organization that is affiliated with a university that contributes to a substantial risk of potential physical injury, mental harm or degradation, or causes physical injury, mental harm or personal degradation; or (b) any act otherwise defined as hazing under applicable law. Hazing includes, but is not limited to:
- striking, beating, paddling, whipping, or electric shocks
- acts of servitude
- sleep deprivation
- coerced consumption of food, liquid, alcohol, drugs, or other substances
- causing reasonable fear of harm through threatening words or conduct
- tests of endurance or extreme calisthenics
Examples of hazing
Hazing takes a variety of forms. Below are examples of common forms of hazing, but other behaviors not listed here may be considered hazing if they meet the definition above.
Signs of hazing
You can take action to create a community of care where all Sun Devils thrive. Hazing can be difficult to recognize, but it can happen to anyone. Here are some of the signs to look out for:
- Being away from one’s residence for days or weeks at a time
- Branding or cutting on one’s body
- Performing odd tasks for other members
- Extreme fatigue
- Sudden change in personality
- Increased isolation
- Feelings of inferiority
If you are concerned about someone, talk with them about what you have observed, offer support, and connect them with resources.
Resources
If you have experienced hazing, witnessed hazing, or know someone affected, campus resources are available for support.
- ASU Counseling Services provides same-day appointments at no cost.
- Hazing prevention is a shared responsibility. Learn more by registering for the online Hazing Prevention 101 course.
- HazingPrevention.Org is a national organization dedicated to hazing prevention.
- StopHazing.org provides information about types of hazing, research, and resources to promote safe and inclusive campus environments.
