Study sheds light on hazing in schools

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - The dictionary defines hazing as an initiation process involving harassment.

According to a new study of more than 11,000 college students, it's a common practice.

University of Maine Researchers found that more than half of college students involved in clubs, teams and organizations experience hazing.

But the problem doesn't start in college.

The study shows 47-percent of college freshmen got hazed in high school.

One American International College senior says his high school coach actually encouraged it.

"It never got out of hand to were they were doing anything they weren't capable of doing. It was basically carrying bags and stuff like that," said Lucius Leroy Millinder.

But researchers say hazing often involves behaviors that are abusive, dangerous and potentially illegal. The experience is different for everyone.

Another AIC student told 22News, her high school didn't tolerate it. "All of the administrators, the teachers knew what was going on and didn't let that happen," said Ashley McGrath.

The study findings are aimed at helping address this problem through prevention.

Researchers say the most common hazing practices are alcohol consumption, humiliation, isolation, sleep-deprivation and sex acts.