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Student Conduct & Academic Integrity Programs

Hazing Information

A person cries on their bed, their head pulled to their knees.

What Is Hazing?

Hazing is any initiation (or pre-initiation) method into a campus organization or activity that causes (or is likely to cause):

  • Physical injury
  • Personal degradation or disgrace
  • Psychological harm

Learn more about the various forms of hazing, how to spot it, and what to ask yourself in determining if your planned activity is hazing.
  • Hazing Is Against UC Policy

    To reiterate, the official UC policy defines hazing as:

    102.12 

    Participation in hazing or any method of initiation or pre-initiation into a campus organization or other activity engaged in by the organization or members of the organization at any time that causes, or is likely to cause, physical injury or personal degradation or disgrace resulting in psychological harm to any student or other person.

  • Hazing Is Against the Law

    Named after Chico State University student Matt Carrington, who died from water intoxication caused by hazing, Matt’s Law made hazing an official crime in California.

    See Section 245.6 of the California State Penal Code.

  • Hazing May Have Legal Consequences

    Those convicted of hazing may incur:

    • A criminal record
    • Financial penalties
    • Imprisonment (if hazing which meets the guidelines for a felony)

    Hazing victims may also sue participants, including individuals or organizations who knew about the hazing and had the power to stop it but failed to do so.

How to Report Hazing

Report hazing immediately to:

Additional On-Campus Resources

  • Student Life can help your student org develop membership recruitment processes and discuss specific organizational concerns.
  • Residence Life  staff members (resident directors, resident advisors, programming coordinators, etc.) are all available to help you.
  • Counseling & Psychological Services is a good place to go for emotional support.

Learn More