“Sometimes organizations believe they’re just playing pranks or engaging in fun traditions, but these activities can still be hazing if they create risk or discomfort,” Cantley said. “Scavenger hunts are a common example. While they may seem lighthearted, there have been incidents where students rushing to complete tasks have been involved in car accidents or sustained injuries.” 

While most students would define hazing as physical harm, verbal hazing can occur during signature or interview requirements. 

“When members ask inappropriate, offensive or overly personal questions, potential new members may feel pressured to answer, even if it makes them uncomfortable,” Cantley said. 

The “why” of hazing varies depending on the organization, but most groups that partake are seeking to build bonds through experience, or weeding out casual applicants. Most upperclassmen or returning members also see it as a rite of passage or tradition because they had to endure it themselves. But Cantley said these justifications backfire quickly. 

“A common misconception is that hazing is the only way to build group cohesion or to prove commitment to a team or organization,” he said. “In reality, it does not strengthen bonds at all. Instead, hazing often fosters resentment. New members who are mistreated may feel disconnected from older members, which fractures the group rather than uniting it. Over time, this can lead to divisions within an organization, where newer members carry frustration or anger toward those who came before them, creating cycles of distrust rather than genuine community.”

If you think you are experiencing or witnessing hazing within your organization, you can reach out for support from a resident assistant, Community Standards and Conflict Resolution (CSCR), Fraternity and Sorority Leadership and Learning (FSLL), Club Sports Administration, Delaware Athletics leadership, University Student Centers staff or another trusted staff member. Reports can be filed online. 

Hazing is covered by the amnesty policy, meaning students who come forward will not face punitive charges for being involved; this is especially important for organizations that have engaged in hazing in the past but want to make positive changes and seek support. 

“Instead of discipline, they will be connected to resources and guidance to help them build safer and healthier traditions,” Cantley said. 

Hazing education is available online via Vector Solutions for students seeking to learn more. So far, more than 2,800 students from UD fraternities and sororities have completed the course. 

Additionally, the Panhellenic Council and Active Minds are hosting an event on Thursday, Sept. 25, from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Trabant MPRs with speaker Chris Locke, the founder of SL24 Unlocke the Light Foundation, providing a wall of hope and affirmation bags with resources from the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

“Hazing can cause psychological harm and mental wellbeing is a priority,” said FSLL Director Jessica Ryan. “The goal of this program is centered around finding community, supporting one another through adversity and receiving educational resources.”

This week, students are encouraged to take the Hazing Prevention Pledge online to commit to prevent hazing from happening, stop hazing when it occurs and report hazing, as well as empowering others to do the same. 

“Signing the pledge is a way to show your commitment to building a Blue Hen community where every person is respected and valued,” Cantley said. “By taking this step, you demonstrate that you care not only about the health and strength of your organization, but also about the wellbeing of each individual who chooses to join it. You are showing your commitment to better teams, student organizations, chapters and groups at UD.”

To learn more, read the University’s hazing policy and prevention plan in compliance with the Stop Campus Hazing Act (SCHA).