Types of Hazing

Hazing can happen across a range of student groups including, but not limited to:

Academic Clubs
Performing Arts Organizations
Service and Professional Fraternities and Sororities
Varsity, Club, and Intramural Sports

The following are descriptions and selected examples for three categories of hazing: subtle, harassment, and violent. It is impossible to list all possible hazing behaviors because many are context-specific. While this is not an all-inclusive list, it provides some common examples of traditions that may violate the Code of Student Conduct’s policy against hazing.

To fully understand what could be considered hazing at Georgetown, please refer to the Main Campus policy.

Subtle Hazing

Activities and/or behaviors that emphasize a power imbalance between new members/rookies and other members of the group or team. Termed “subtle hazing” because these types of hazing are often taken-for-granted or accepted as “harmless” or meaningless. Subtle hazing typically involves activities or attitudes that breach reasonable standards of mutual respect and place new members/rookies on the receiving end of ridicule, embarrassment, and/or humiliation tactics. New members/rookies often feel the need to endure subtle hazing to feel like part of the group or team.

Examples:

Harassment Hazing

Activities and/or behaviors that cause emotional anguish or physical discomfort in order to feel like part of the group. Harassment hazing confuses, frustrates, and causes undue stress for new members/rookies. Some types of harassment hazing can also be considered violent hazing.

Examples:

Violent Hazing

Activities and/or behaviors that have the potential to cause physical and/or emotional, or psychological harm.

Examples:

Report Hazing

The University will investigate all reports of hazing behavior, including those reported anonymously. If this is an emergency or an urgent situation, call 911 or Georgetown University Police (202-687-4343) immediately.

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