Hazing Prevention and Policy

Definition of Hazing

Hazing, or conspiracy to haze. Hazing is defined as any method of initiation or pre‐initiation into a student organization or student body, whether or not the organization or body is officially recognized by an educational institution, which is likely to cause serious bodily injury to any former, current, or prospective student of any school, community college, college, university or other educational institution in this state (Penal Code 245.6), and in addition, any act likely to cause physical harm, personal degradation or disgrace resulting in physical or mental harm, to any former, current, or prospective student of any school, community college, college, university or other educational institution. The term "hazing" does not include customary athletic events or school sanctioned events. Neither the express or implied consent of a victim of hazing, nor the lack of active participation in a particular hazing incident is a defense. Apathy or acquiescence in the presence of hazing is not a neutral act, and is also a violation of this section.

CSU Anti Hazing Policy

What are possible outcomes of participating in hazing?

  • Participation in a hazing practice will result in both individual and organizational disciplinary action, including possible expulsion.
  • Commission of hazing is also a misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and up to a $5,000 fine.
  • Hazing cases that involve serious bodily injury or death may be charged as felonies.
  • Disciplinary action will also be instituted against officers who permit hazing to occur within their own organization and students who allow themselves to be hazed may also be subject to disciplinary action.
  • Any proven hazing incident involving serious bodily injury will result in revocation of University recognition, and where applicable, a recommendation to national organization for revocation of the organization's charter.

Examples of prohibited activities include but are not limited to:

  1. Any form of physically demanding or dangerous activity (calisthenics, runs, etc.) not part of a sanctioned university or auxiliary activity.
  2. Paddling, shoving, hitting, slapping, punching, dragging, kicking, or shocking an individual regardless of degree or nature.
  3. Compelling, pressuring or forcing an individual to consume, use or be exposed to alcohol, tobacco, or drugs or engage in drinking games.
  4. Compelling, pressuring or forcing an individual to consume unusual, undue amounts, or odd preparations of food, liquids, substances or other items.
  5. Throwing, pouring, submerging, or otherwise applying substances to the bodies, clothing, or belongings of individuals.
  6. Morally degrading or humiliating games, performances, or other activities that make an individual the object of ridicule, amusement or intimidation.
  7. Abducting or transporting an individual to undisclosed locations, abandoning individuals, or conducting any "kidnap," "road trip," or "ditch" that may in any way endanger or compromise the physical or mental health, safety, or comfort of any individual.
  8. Confining an individual to unreasonably small, poorly ventilated, unsanitary, uncomfortable or unlit areas.
  9. Restraining an individual in any manner.
  10. Intentionally exposing an individual to unsafe, hazardous, or uncomfortable temperatures, conditions, or environments.
  11. Compelling, pressuring or forcing an individual to engage in, encourage, or witness nonconsensual sexual behavior, including kissing, touching private parts, fondling, or intercourse, or in sexual simulations.
  12. Activities that require an individual to remain in a fixed position for an extended period of time.
  13. "Line-ups" involving intense or demeaning intimidation or interrogation, such as shouting obscenities, insults, or quizzing an individual.
  14. Using demeaning, degrading or humiliating language, or derogatory names, or otherwise engaging in verbal abuse.
  15. Assigning activities such as pranks or scavenger/treasure hunts in which a person is asked to deface or steal property, engage in humiliating acts, stunts, or bother other individuals or organizations/teams.
  16. Exposing an individual to bodily fluids, including, but not limited to, blood, vomit, feces, urine, saliva, and semen, or compelling an individual to engage in activity that induces bodily functions.
  17. Compelling individuals to wear or carry unusual, embarrassing, degrading, uncomfortable or physically burdensome items or apparel.
  18. Depriving individuals of sufficient sleep, comfortable sleeping arrangements, meals, or access to showers, baths, and sinks.
  19. Activities that interfere with an individual's academic efforts by causing exhaustion, loss of sleep, or loss of reasonable study time or by interfering with an individual's ability to attend class.
  20. Compelling, pressuring or forcing an individual to engage in acts of personal servitude for others including errands, cleaning, standing in line, completing academic assignments or tasks, driving and shopping.
  21. Compelling an individual to modify their body by way of branding, tattooing, piercing, shaving, weight loss, or other forms of modification.
  22. Compelling, pressuring or forcing an individual to not participate in familial, religious, cultural, or traditional activities, holidays, or events.
  23. Intentionally creating a mess and forcing others to clean up.
  24. Compelling individuals to purchase an animal or engage in animal cruelty or mistreatment.
  25. Blindfolding individuals in a manner that may cause intimidation, fear, or harm.
  26. Depriving new members access to or use of cell phones, wallets, keys or key fobs, or other personal possessions.

All members of the university community have a responsibility to prevent, stop and report hazing. If you have witnessed or experienced hazing, you can make a report by submitting the Student Organizations Incident Report or contacting the offices and departments listed below.

In case of an emergency and you or someone else needs immediate assistance call 911.

Matador Involvement Center

  • Office Location: University Student Union, Sol Center, office 122
  • Main Phone: 818-677-5111
  • Staff Email

Office of the Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean of Students

  • Main Phone: 818-677-2391

Department of Police Services

The Department of Police Services is a full-service, accredited law enforcement agency that provides police and emergency services to the university community and is open 24 hours a day/seven days a week.

  • Office Location: On the corner of Darby and Prairie Street, west of the B3 parking structure
  • Emergency: 911
  • Non-emergency: 818-677-2111 (available 24 hours a day)
  • Text 911: Text your emergency and location to CSUN PD