Acting On Hazing
To prevent hazing, the whole university community must act. If you suspect someone might be hazing or being hazed, it is important to act by asking questions, trust your instincts, and responding.
Step 1: Ask Clarifying Questions
Be direct and ask! Don’t automatically assume something is hazing. Ask clarifying questions to help determine if a behavior is hazing or someone is being hazed. Approaching these conversations is situational. It is important to build rapport with the individual.
“How have you been recently?”
“I’ve noticed ________. Can you tell me about that?”
- You haven’t been completing assignments
- You’ve missed meetings
- Your appearance has changed
- You look tired
Step 2: Trust Your Instincts
Even if someone says they are not being hazed, if you still have concerns, move forward with responding. Remember that hazing occurs even if a person wants to participate.
Step 3: Respond/Report
If you believe someone is being hazed, report the behavior in as much detail as possible.
- Organization name
- When and where the event(s) occurred
- Videos, screenshots, or pictures can be uploaded directly in the reporting form
- Names of individuals involved (if known)
- How you became aware of the information
Hazing reports can be made anonymously. Click here to report hazing.
Are You or Someone You Know Being Hazed?
Hazing can affect people in many different ways including: anger, confusion, betrayal, fear, resentment, embarrassment, humiliation, hopelessness, helplessness, anxiety and/or depression. If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these feelings, submit a Hawk Alert to alert professional staff.
If you feel someone is in immediate danger or does not feel safe, immediately contact 911 or UTM Public Safety at 731-881-7777.