First of all, hazing is pointless, non-constructive, illegal and not condoned (officially) by any organization.
Second, the majority of GLOs out there do not force new members to do such immoral and degrading things. It's a very small minority in fact.
However, it would be innaccurate to say that no hazing occurs anywhere. I grad student I worked with actually did an expose in our school newspaper on some of the fraternities at my school and the insane things that they asked their pledges to do (some even nastier than what was originally reported). Keep in mind though that most of his information came from de-pledges or people who were just disgrunted (in some cases, they had every right to be!) Also different organizations blur the line between hazing and non-hazing and so do the respective members. Personally, the information has made me more aware, but I hold no ill feelings towards any entire organization because of the stupidity of a couple co-eds.
Don't get me wrong, I don't condone hazing in any way and who ever does so should have no excuse. But people also tend to forget that there are quite a few 'non-Greek' organizations (the military, social subcultures {like skinheads}, certain religious groups, and even marching bands) that have initiation procedures that can border (or are) hazing. It's frustrating that fraternities & sororities are so readily associated with this.
My suggestion is to thoroughly investigate the group that you're interested in. How is your chemistry with the current members? Do they show geniune concern and friendship with you, or is it just a show? Have you established a bond of trust with the members? Obviously, it's impossible to know the specifics of any organization's rituals, initiation, etc. before you pledge; but if you're feeling pressured or humiliated....it's not the end of the world if you leave!
Remember, a fraternity/sorority experience should be one of love, pride, and betterment. Like Nick Hexum (311) says..."Believe it to you see it, then see it twice".
[This message has been edited by MsDGP007 (edited March 27, 2001).]
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