Sunday letters: Strong stance needed against hazing

A Clemson student and a USC student have died this year in ways that may be related to fraternity hazing. Bloomberg estimates there have been 60 fraternity hazing-related deaths nationally since 2005.

College hazing is not just related to fraternities. A study at the University of Maine shows that 55 percent of students experienced hazing from clubs and other organizations. The psychology of hazing is not fully understood, but it is part of our culture. At its worst, hazing is simply bullying and degradation. It is clear, however, that in the hands of young college students, it is a dangerous practice that often goes awry.

Our universities try to regulate and oversee fraternities and hazing practices. They have varying success. I believe they need to be not only very strict and active in this oversight, but also active in bringing about a change in how students view hazing.

The University of Florida changed its policies in 2013, following numerous hazing allegations. The school now limits the pledging time for new members and requires that alumni or chapter advisers be present for initiation rituals.

I would like to see South Carolina’s universities make strong statements against hazing in their public pronouncements and through their policies and the enforcement of those policies. I also believe university administrators should lead the way in changing how students think about hazing.

Columbia

This story was originally published April 25, 2015 at 7:30 PM with the headline "Sunday letters: Strong stance needed against hazing."