Preventing Hazing, Protecting Lives
Penn State is committed to ending hazing in all forms. It is the responsibility of the entire Penn State community to work together to prevent hazing and report any concerns.
We are committed to fostering a safe, respectful, and inclusive campus environment where leadership, teamwork, and friendships can grow through healthy, positive experiences. Through efforts like National Hazing Prevention Week, educational programs, and clear reporting procedures, Penn State empowers students to recognize, prevent, and take a stand against hazing.
Are You or Someone You Know Being Hazed?
If you or anyone else is in immediate danger, call 911 or the University Police (814-863-1111) immediately.
Defining Hazing
Hazing at Penn State refers to any intentional act—physical, mental, or emotional—that pressures, coerces, or forces a student to do something harmful, humiliating, illegal, or unsafe to join, remain in, or gain status within a group or organization. Importantly, hazing is hazing even when a student agrees to participate. Hazing has no place in our community and is prohibited by University policy and state and federal law.
Campus Hazing Transparency Report
The Pennsylvania State University Campus Hazing Transparency report provides all findings of violations of the institution’s antihazing policy or Federal or State law for five (5) previous consecutive years related to hazing that are reported to the University. The report is published in accordance with Act 80 of 2018, the Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law, 18 Pa.C.S. § 2809 et seq. and the Stop Campus Hazing Act, 20 U.S.C.A. § 1092(f).
Recognizing Hazing
Understanding hazing means recognizing the behaviors that signal it. Hazing can take many forms, including activities that are dangerous, degrading, or put individuals at risk for mental or physical harm. Because it often operates under the guise of tradition or group bonding, familiarizing yourself with the University’s definition and your organization’s expectations is key to prevention and personal well-being.
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- Forced consumption of alcohol or substances: rapid, excessive, or coerced consumption of alcohol or other substances
- Verbal abuse: yelling, threatening or intimidating others
- Humiliation: being required to wear embarrassing clothing, answer inappropriate questions, or engage in degrading activities
- Isolation: being restricted from interacting with friends, family, or other groups
- Sleep deprivation: being intentionally woken up at night or required to perform tasks late into the night
- Pointless or unrelated tasks: being asked activities that have no connection to the mission or purpose of the organization
- Sexual acts: being asked to participate in or simulate sexual acts
- Forced physical activity: exercise or physical exertion unrelated to the organization’s mission or beyond what is reasonable or safe
These are examples and not an exhaustive list. If you think something may be hazing, play it safe and report it.
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- Sudden changes in behavior after joining an organization
- Withdrawal from friends, family, or usual social activities
- Increased anxiety, fear, anger, or stress
- Physical and/or emotional exhaustion
- Unexplained injuries, bruises, or other signs of harm
- Declining grades or frequent missed classes
- Increased alcohol and/or drug use
- Concerning or unusual posts on social media
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If the answer to any of the following questions is “yes” the activity is likely hazing:
- Would I feel comfortable with family, media, or university officials observing this activity?
- Are senior or existing members declining to participate alongside new members?
- Does the activity pose risk of emotional or physical harm?
- Have I been told to keep the activity a secret?
- Am I being asked to do anything illegal or against university policy?
- Does this activity conflict with my personal values or the organization’s values?
Legal Impacts and Consequences
Hazing violates Penn State policy (AD98) and federal and Pennsylvania law, including the Stop Campus Hazing Act and the Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law. Individuals and organizations that engage in hazing face University disciplinary action through the Office of Student Accountability and Conflict Response, and may also be subject to criminal charges under state or federal statute.
At the University level, hazing violations can result in sanctions against both students and organizations, including suspension or loss of recognition. Groups that operate without recognition are not protected by University oversight and pose increased risk to members and the broader community.
Hazing Laws and Policies
Prevention Training at Penn State
Penn State provides comprehensive hazing prevention training to help students and organizations build safer, more accountable communities. Through education, skill-building, and research-informed practices, students learn how to identify risky behaviors, support peers, and foster group cultures grounded in respect and well-being.
- Prevent.Zone Training: This online program introduces students to the fundamentals of hazing prevention, helping them recognize concerning behaviors and understand how to intervene safely.
- Fraternity and Sorority Life Education: Chapters participate in ongoing training designed to promote safer membership processes, strengthen values-based decision-making, and build a culture of accountability within the community.
- Request a Workshop: Student groups and organizations can request in-person hazing prevention workshops that offer practical tools, discussion, and guidance tailored to their needs.
National Prevention Research at Penn State
The Piazza Center leads national efforts to understand and prevent hazing by advancing research that strengthens campus safety and supports healthier fraternity and sorority communities. Through evidence-based insights and collaboration with institutions across the country, the center helps shape policies and practices that protect students and promote meaningful, values-driven membership experiences.
Resources
Penn State encourages all students to take an active role in prevention by speaking up, supporting one another, and accessing these resources. Together, we build a campus where everyone can belong and thrive safely.