Sociology of Sport- Hazing

Essay by SteveMcCartUniversity, Bachelor'sB+, January 2006

download word file, 3 pages 5.0

Downloaded 32 times

My reply to that particular guest would be as follows:

Over the years, hazing has grown into a nationwide dilemma. There are numerous people, now, struggling over the issue of whether it is right or wrong. To set the record straight, hazing is very destructive to the victim and his/her character. There is no place in sport or anywhere for that matter for these demeaning, detrimental and cruel acts. Many people have become confused about the definition of hazing. Jay Coakley, author of Sport in Society: Issues & Controversies defines hazing as, "any activity expected of someone joining the group that humiliates, degrades, abuses or endangers, regardless of the person's willingness to participate," (Page 164). McGill University is one of the oldest institutions of higher learning in Canada. The University released an anti-hazing statement following an investigation into a complaint about inappropriate behavior during the football team's initiation of a rookie, which outlines their definition of hazing.

It says that hazing is, "any action taken or situation created which recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health or safety of any student for continued membership on any team." (Universitysport.ca)

Even though incidents of hazing are less publicized in the last 2 decades, hazing continues to be a major problem in our society. Hazing can occur in any group, anywhere, in society. Punishment for engaging in hazing is one of the first items on the agenda for most if not all sports teams. However even though these punishments are severe and often result in being banished from the team, many cases of hazing are unreported every year. Hazing comes in three different forms. Subtle hazing emphasizes a power imbalance that is usually taken for granted as being 'harmless' or 'meaningless'. One example is naming calling. Behaviors that cause undue...