Lehigh University defines hazing as:
Any action taken or situation created, whether on or off campus, to produce mental or physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment, or ridicule.
Visit our Laws & Policies page to read Lehigh’s full policies around hazing and Pennsylvania State Law on Hazing.
Could it be Hazing?
- Does the activity require secrecy?
- Does it reflect the values or purpose of your organization?
- Could it result in emotional, mental, or physical abuse or injury?
- Would you be comfortable with your family or University knowing about the activity? Would you be willing to allow your family or University to witness the activity?
- How would you feel if the activity was photographed or videotaped and made available online?
- Are we only doing this because this is how it’s always been done?
- Does the activity provide an educational experience?
- Is alcohol involved?
- Does the activity help the new members of your group become a better member of your team or organization? Would you be able to clearly and easily articulate how it makes them a better member to your advisor, coach, or LUPD?
- Does the activity violate the Lehigh Student Code of Conduct, your team or organization’s policies, or federal, state, or local law?
- Does this activity make someone feel belittled or less than?
- Chronic fatigue
- Unusual or disrupted patterns of communication or behavior
- Symptoms of depression, such as sudden withdrawal from relationships, sudden mood swings, change in appetite, or lack of hygiene
- Defensiveness when hearing concerns from others
- Describing hazing activities but calling them “traditions”, “rituals”, or “initiations”
This information was adapted from Georgetown University and the University of Virigina.