Hazing refers to a process of putting initiates through painful, dangerous or humiliating situations as a way of proving their commitment to a team or group before they are allowed to join. Hazing is an extremely dangerous practice that has resulted in serious injuries and deaths. Learning how to recognize the signs of hazing can help you protect your child and know when to take legal action.
Unexplained Physical Injuries
Hazing often puts initiates through grueling physical challenges that push them to the limits of what their bodies can handle. This may include strenuous exercises, physical abuse, sleep deprivation, forced dietary restrictions, or the use of alcohol and drugs. It can also involve sexual abuse committed by members of the group.
The physical aspects of hazing may result in noticeable injuries, such as bruising or limping, as well as unexplained changes in weight or appearance. Hazing may also result in sexual assault injuries, dehydration, malnourishment, heat stroke or overexertion. If your child’s explanations for physical injuries do not make sense, it may suggest illegal hazing activities.
If you suspect that your child is being hazed at school, contact our school sexual assault attorney in Illinois today.
Personality or Behavioral Changes
Hazing is often about more than just physical tests; recruits may have to endure mental, emotional and psychological trials, as well. This can lead to unusual changes in your child’s personality, behaviors or mental health. Any of the following could be signs of a traumatic hazing experience:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Mood swings
- Aggressive outbursts
- Post-traumatic stress symptoms
- Isolation from others
- Trouble sleeping or nightmares
- Low self-esteem
- Feelings of shame, guilt or fear
- Drug or alcohol abuse
- Suicidal thoughts or actions
If you notice any of these changes, ask your child if he or she is okay. Sometimes, initiating a conversation about hazing is enough to get a victim to tell his or her story and report the perpetrators. Consider professional counseling or therapy if your child is suffering from serious depression or mental health struggles.
Academic Declines
The physical and mental toll that hazing can take, as well as the amount of time the initiate spends on hazing rituals, can interfere with the student’s academic performance. Mental health struggles and distractions can lead to bad grades. The student may also skip school because of hazing or get into trouble for bullying others. Hazing could also lead to criminal activity and getting into legal trouble.
What to Do About Hazing in Illinois
If you know your child is trying to join a sports team, sorority or fraternity, social or academic club, or any other type of group at school, pay attention to his or her physical, mental and emotional state in the coming days and weeks for potential signs of hazing. Talk to your child directly about hazing and its risks. Encourage your child to tell someone about any hazing activities experienced or heard about on campus.
If your child is a victim of hazing that resulted in physical or psychological harm in Illinois, contact us the Mahoney Law Firm for a free consultation about your legal rights and options. Your family may be eligible for financial compensation from those responsible – including the school, college or sports organization. Our attorneys can help you seek justice and maximum financial compensation.
