Hazing Prevention

Towson University supports a culture of respect, inclusion and safety on campus and within all student groups and organizations. 

Hazing causes harm to individuals and our campus. It is against the law and is strictly prohibited at Towson University. We all share the responsibility to foster a safe and supportive environment, and we encourage every member of our community to stand against hazing and actively promote a culture of care and accountability. 

Submit a hazing report.

Submit Report

What is hazing?

Hazing is when someone is forced to do something on purpose, either on or off campus, that could hurt them or make them feel scared, embarrassed or uncomfortable—whether they agree to it or not.

It includes actions that show one person or group has power over others, especially if it is meant to shame, harm or pressure someone. 

Learn more about TU's hazing policy.

Hazing Characteristics

Hazing is characterized as any activity that includes two or more of the following:

  • activities that occur in a group context
  • activities that expose personal values to compromise or ridicule
  • activities that abuse the trust an organization strives to build between its members and prospective members
  • stunts that have no meaningful relationship to the objectives of the organization
  • activities that humiliate or subject individuals to circumstances with which they are not comfortable or of which they are fearful
  • activities that are illegal or violate university policy
  • activities that interfere with academic pursuits or normal life functions

Hazing Bystander Intervention Strategies

5 Ds for Effective Bystander Intervention

  • Direct - address the concern with the person or group taking the action.
  • Distract - pull the attention of participants away from the activity with a distraction.
  • Delegate - tell someone else that the behavior is happening.
  • Delay - find a way to stall the hazing activity.
  • Document - report the activity to the university or police.

Types of Hazing

Intimidation hazing includes behaviors that emphasize the power imbalance between newer and older members.

Examples include but are not limited to: 

  • name-calling
  • any form of demerits
  • duties only assigned to new members/rookies

Harassment hazing behaviors cause unnecessary emotional or physical distress.

Examples include but are not limited to:

  • verbal abuse
  • requiring new members/rookies to perform a personal service for an older member
  • any form of questioning under pressure or in an uncomfortable situation

Violence hazing behaviors are intended to cause harm physically, emotionally and psychologically.

Examples include but are not limited to:

  • forced or pressured consumption of substance or non-edible items
  • calisthenics or required physical activity
  • sexual violation
  • physical assault

Submit a Hazing Report

Build Your Team

6 Ways to Build Healthy Groups and Teams

There are many ways to build healthy groups and teams:

  • Participate in community service projects together.
  • Identify common times for new and returning members to hang out.
  • Visit a challenge course led by professionals work on communication leadership skills.
  • Utilize campus resources to promote scholarship.
  • Strengthen problem solving skills through team building activities.
  • Work on personal development through activities like vision boards and goal setting.