Frequently Asked Questions and Additional Resources
Common Questions about Hazing
Hazing happens when someone intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly forces, pressures, or coerces another person into participating in certain activities. These actions often occur as part of initiation, pledging, gaining membership, holding office, or maintaining status in a group or organization. For a more detailed explanation, check out the About Hazing page.
Yes. The State of Alabama Hazing Statute and the federal law, the Stop Campus Hazing Act, prohibit hazing.
Absolutely. Beyond facing criminal charges and university penalties, individuals involved in hazing (and student organization leaders) can also be sued in civil court. Lawsuits have resulted in millions of dollars in damages.
No. Regardless of whether physical harm occurs, hazing is illegal in Alabama and violates university policies. Psychological and emotional harm can be just as damaging as physical abuse.
Tragically, yes. Every year, hazing-related deaths occur at schools across the country. In many of these cases, those involved believed their actions were harmless until it was too late.
No. Tradition doesn't justify breaking the law or violating university rules. Organizations create traditions, and they also have the power to change them. A hazing tradition can be broken in just one year. It's worth remembering that the founding members of organizations weren't hazed.
No. True respect is earned, not forced.When people respect one another, they also trust each other. Hazing creates fear and anxiety, not respect.
No. Hazing actually isolates new members from the rest of the group. It does the opposite of fostering unity. There are far better ways to build connections and community.
Yes. Everyone in the campus community has a legal responsibility to report suspected hazing as soon as possible as stated in the State of Alabama Hazing Statute and the federal law, the Stop Campus Hazing Act, and the Auburn University Hazing Policy.
Students who fail to report hazing could face disciplinary action under the Code of Student Conduct. Employees may also be subject to workplace consquences.
If it's an emergency, call 911. For non-emergency situations,
- Call the Auburn University Hazing Hotline at 1-800-361-9025.
- Text an anonymous hazing report to 334-339-6200.
- Submit an anonymous report online at aub.ie/Reportit.
- Visit the Student Conduct Office.
When making a report, try to provide as much detail as possible – including the name of the organization, the names of people involved, where it happened, when it occured, and what took place.
Yes, absolutely. It is best if you include enough information that the information provided can be confirmed during an investigation, so try to provide as much detail as possible - including the name of the organization, the names of people involved, where it happened, when it occurred, and what took place.
Possibly. To be considered for immunity, you must respond appropriately to the situation. For specifics on what's expected, refer to the Hazing Policy.
Yes. University policy requires you to report any credible concerns about hazing, whether it has already occurred or might happen in the near future.
Retaliation against someone who makes a good faith hazing report is strictly against university policy and will lead to serious consequences for those responsible.
Consequences vary based on the situation but may include education, probation, suspension, or even criminal charges.