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Anti-Hazing FAQs

  • What is hazing?

    At the University of Alabama at Birmingham, hazing is defined as any activity expected of someone joining or participating in a group that humiliates, degrades, abuses or endangers them, regardless of whether the individual consents. UAB is unconditionally opposed to hazing in any form. Hazing can be physical, psychological, substance-related or coercive.

  • Is hazing against UAB policy?

    Yes. Hazing is strictly prohibited by UAB policy and is considered a serious violation. It has no place in campus life and contradicts the university’s commitment to a safe, respectful and inclusive environment.

  • Is hazing illegal?

    Yes. Hazing is not only banned by UAB policy but also a criminal offense under Alabama law. Students and organizations found responsible may face both university disciplinary action and potential criminal charges.

  • Is hazing ok if now one gets hurt?

    No. Any form of hazing, regardless of the outcome, is a crime in Alabama and a violation of UAB policy. It does not become ok, legal or permissible if no harm is intended or occurs. Additionally, verbal and emotional abuse can be just as damaging as physical abuse.

  • Have people died from hazing?

    Sadly, yes. There are deaths attributable to hazing at other schools every year. In each of those situations, the individuals that engaged in the hazing probably thought what they were doing was harmless and would not result in someone’s death.

  • Does it matter if someone agrees to it?

    Yes. In addition to criminal penalties and University sanctions, an individual that engages in hazing could be sued and forced to pay significant monetary damages (along with attorney's fees) as part of a civil suit. These suits have resulted in judgements totaling millions of dollars.

  • Can I get sued for hazing?

    No. Consent or willingness does not make hazing acceptable. Even “voluntary” participation in activities that are coercive, endangering or degrading still qualifies as hazing.

  • What are examples of hazing?

    Examples include, but are not limited to:

    • Physical activities causing discomfort or harm (forced exercise, exposure to elements)
    • Psychological intimidation, humiliation or ridicule
    • Substance-related pressure or forced consumption
    • Coercive activities such as sleep deprivation or forced duties

    Any activity that risks mental or physical harm as a condition of membership or participation can be hazing.

  • Who must follow the anti-hazing policy?

    All members of the UAB community, including students, student organizations, fans, volunteers and advisors, are expected to understand and comply with hazing policies. Students involved in student organizations are required to acknowledge the policy and understand what constitutes hazing.

    If you experience, observe or suspect hazing, report it immediately. You may report anonymously or provide your name for follow-up.

    Report Hazing via:

    • UAB Police (emergency): (205) 934-3535
    • Student Conduct Office: (205) 996-1512 or studentconduct@uab.edu
    • Title IX Office: (205) 996-1340
    • Online Hazing Report Form (anonymous reporting available)
  • What happens after a report is filed?

    Reports are reviewed and investigated according to university policy and student conduct procedures. Disciplinary action may include educational sanctions, probation, suspension or loss of organization recognition.

  • Should I be worried about being removed from the group or punished by the group for reporting hazing?

    No. Retaliation by an individual or organization against an individual who made good faith report of hazing activity is a violation of UAB policy and will result in significant sanctions.

  • What sort of sanctions, punishments or disciplines could I face for engaging in hazing or failing to report hazing?

    Sanctions vary and are determined on a case-by-case basis and can include probation, suspension, required counseling, loss of privileges, community service, criminal charges, etc.

  • Are there resources to learn more or prevent hazing?

    Yes. UAB offers hazing prevention training, educational materials and bystander intervention resources to help students recognize and stop hazing. Support and counseling services are available for affected individuals.

  • Why is reporting important? What should I do if I witness or suspect hazing?

    Failing to report hazing enables harmful behavior to continue. Reporting helps protect student well-being and supports UAB’s commitment to a safe campus.

Note: This FAQ reflects current UAB standards on hazing and general legal context. For full policy details, see UAB’s Anti-Hazing Policy and related Student Affairs resources.