Cougs don't haze.

Being a Coug means being part of a respectful, safe community that welcomes and includes everyone. Hazing hurts individuals and our entire campus community by creating environments of fear and discrimination. 

Examples of Hazing Behaviors

Hazing can take many forms, and it may not look like what you’re expecting. Some examples of hazing include:

Hazing behaviors spectrum

  • Intimidation
    • Social isolation
    • Using demeaning names for initiates and demanding titles (Ms., Mr.) for existing members
    • Assigning meaningless or impossible tasks
    • Requiring new members to carry specific items at all times
    • Deceptions
    • Behavior and/or activities that reinforce power differentials

    Intimidation behaviors are often low in severity but high in frequency.

  • Harassment
    • Verbal abuse, yelling
    • Threats or implied threats
    • Sleep deprivation
    • Requiring "pranks" such as stealing from or harassing another organization
    • Skit nights with degrading or humiliating acts
    • Requiring new members to perform services for existing members (cleaning, errands)

    Harassment behaviors are often of medium severity and frequency. 

  • Violence
    • Physical abuse
    • Sexual abuse
    • Forced consumption of alcohol, drugs, and/or disgusting substances
    • Abductions and/or limiting someone's ability to leave a situation or place
    • Bondage
    • Total or partial nudity

    Violent behaviors are high in severity but typically low in frequency.

 

If you’re not sure if something is hazing, try asking yourself the following questions: 

  • Would I feel comfortable with this activity if my family were watching? 
  • Does this activity violate any WSU or organizational standards or codes of conduct? 
  • Is this activity illegal? 
  • Does this activity cause participants emotional, physical, or mental distress? 

If you answered yes to any of these questions, please make a report to the university.