MYTH
If someone agrees to participate in an activity, it can't be considered hazing.
FACT
Under state law and UT policy, the fact that a person consented to a hazing activity is not a defense. The peer pressure and desire to belong in a student organization can create a coercive environment where true consent cannot be given.
MYTH
A little hazing should be okay, as long as there's no mean-spirited or harmful intent.
FACT
Hazing is illegal under Texas state law and violates University policy. It does not become okay, legal or permissible if no harm is intended.
MYTH
Hazing builds unity among new members.
FACT
Engaging in unlawful behavior is not the way to build unity. In fact, 94.4% of UT students believe that they do not need to be hazed to feel like they belong to a group.
MYTH
Hazing is okay as long as it is not physically dangerous.
FACT
Hazing is not just dangerous because it can cause physical harm. Hazing can also cause mental and emotional distress both to the person hazing, and the one being hazed. 90.5% of UT students believe that hazing is a problem because it can cause emotional harm.
MYTH
Hazing only exists in sororities and fraternities.
FACT
Hazing incidents can happen in any club or student organization, including athletic teams, ROTC/military associations, performing arts groups, faith-based organizations, and student government.