Meredith on the Rationalization of “Hazing” in The Minnesota Daily

In the article “USG passes resolution to prevent on-campus hazing,” Dr. Liza Meredith explains the pressures to obey and take part in hazing and the reasoning behind it. Hazing is any behavior or activity that endangers the health or safety of an individual in exchange for a form of membership in a group, regardless of whether the individual wants to participate. Hazing is more common with men, as it can be a way to prove their masculinity.

Meredith states that hazing is rooted in the concept of obeying orders and falling under peer pressure, which is prevalent in fraternity settings. When individuals witness their “brothers” participating in such activities, they may feel compelled to do the same, justifying their actions as tradition. However, regardless of tradition, The University of Minnesota’s Student Government (USG) is taking action by passing the REACH Act to ensure all students on campus are safe and to eliminate hazing. 

Liza Meredith, PhD, Contact Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychology at the University of Minnesota.