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I share your concerns. There is overwhelming evidence that hazing takes place in many fraternity chapters. I was not hazed, nor was my daughter. I think that most NPC chapters have eliminated this in their chapters.
Until enough pledges stand up and say they won't tolerate it --and are willing to walk away it likely won't change. If enough pledges walk away and a chapter is struggling with numbers, they may begin to realize that it can't continue.
Parents need to have very honest conversations with their initiated members reminding them that they weren't raised to humiliate and degrade others.
Most importantly, the change has to come from within. When chapter leaders are empowered to bring about change and they embrace that responsibility, it can be effective. Thinking that administrative initiatives will make real change is naive. Students will go underground and continue inappropriate behaviors. They can't be watched 24/7.
When I was raising my children, I always told them what my expectations were. I explained to them why I had certain rules. I felt it important to empower my kids to make good choices when they are away from me because I couldn't always be with them giving advice. They have to carry the voice of reason within themselves.
Continued education and conversations from advisers and parents need to happen until we can get through to those participating that it is not fun and games. Far too many young lives are being lost needlessly. It is heartbreaking.
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