Hazing culture is pervasive and heavily intertwined in sports and student organizations at both the high school and collegiate levels. At least one hazing-related death has been reported in American schools every year since 1959.
Texas' anti-hazing law, effective September 2019, facilitates the prosecution of hazing to ensure student and university accountability. How could this law bring new standards of safety to students?
On the federal level, a bill introduced in October aims to dramatically decrease deaths related to hazing incidents. If passed, the proposed END ALL Hazing Act would provide students and parents information about student organizations and their hazing history.
What efforts are being made by universities to prevent hazing-related deaths and injuries? What role can parents play in holding these institutions accountable?
In addition to physical risks, what psychological effects can hazing have? What resources are available for victims? Why does hazing happen and how can it be prevented?
Guests:
- Debbie Debrick, parent member of the Anti-Hazing Coalition
- Judson Horras, president and CEO of the North American Interfraternity Conference
- Chris Quintana, education enterprise reporter for USA TODAY
- Elizabeth Allan, professor and program coordinator of the higher education graduate program at the University of Maine
"The Source" is a live call-in program airing Mondays through Thursdays from 12-1 p.m. Leave a message before the program at (210) 615-8982. During the live show, call 210-614-8980, email thesource@tpr.org or tweet @TPRSource.
*This interview was recorded on Wednesday, February 5.
