Sorority and Fraternity Attitudes Towards Initiation and Hazing

Abstract

This study assessed students’ attitudes towards fraternity and sorority intake processes at a regional Mid-Atlantic University (MU) to gain an understanding of overall attitudes and discern whether students distinguish differences between hazing and initiation procedures. Study results indicated that students understand the general purpose of initiation and the dangers of hazing; however, a general understanding may not translate to an understanding of the specifics activities involved in new member initiation processes. Study results specified differences in understanding initiation and hazing are greatest by gender and fraternity/ sorority council. Implications for higher education research and student affairs practice are discussed.