Are Your Kids Victims of Hazing?

We’ve all heard about cases of college hazing activities that end with tragic consequences. Despite the fact that most states and individual schools have anti-hazing policies in place, these activities continue to go on, with only the worst cases coming to the attention of parents, administrators and authorities.

What many parents may not be aware of is that while it may be much more common at the college level, a growing number of hazing incidents are being reported at the high school level and even younger, where some kids and teens are being subjected to emotional and physical abuse. Recent cases like the Bingham High School Drill Team in Utah, or the Robertson High School Football team in New Mexico, which involved instances of humiliation, physical violence, and even sexual abuse, have been making headlines.

The abuse is not just limited to sports teams. According to a study by researchers at Alfred University, nearly half of high school students involved in school organizations have experienced some form of hazing. Parents need to be aware of how widespread these abuses are, and how they can get involved with their kids and their school to help put a stop to them.

Hazing is used as a way for kids or teens to show their commitment to participating in a club or group, but it amounts to simple bullying and can have dangerous and long-lasting repercussions. It’s important for you to talk to your kids and teens about how dangerous these activities can be, and make sure they know that they don’t have to allow themselves to be subjected to them. Kids Health points out that as a parent, there are some steps you can take to help prevent hazing.

• Learn about your states anti-hazing laws and how they apply to your kid’s school.
• Make sure your kid’s school has clearly-defined regulations that prohibit hazing and bullying, and that they take immediate action if these incidents occur.
• Talk to other parents, particularly of older children to find out what their kids might have experienced.
• Talk to your kids about speaking out if they see these activities going on. Many times, in a group setting, you might wait for someone else to “do the right thing,” but it’s important to take the initiative yourself before it’s too late.

Hazing and bullying can be very dangerous, but your kids can help prevent it by speaking out, or choosing not to participate. Others might follow their lead and refuse to go along with the group.

Check out Kids Health for more information about hazing and recognizing problem situations — and what you can do to avoid them.