I wasn't hazed in any way during my pledge period--like some other posts I've read, the bigs always asked us whether we felt comfortable doing something and to speak up if we didn't. we were also guided by 'parents' (i luv my pledge mom, she's the best)who advised us about requirements and led us every step of the way. i've heard very credible "hazing" stories straight from its sources from other chapters (although their nationals forbid it of course)...Many times I've had a friend pledge XYZ and knock on my dorm room at the wee hours of morning looking tired and is just seeking a friend to support him and encourage him to keep on. I mean, I could only say, "i cannot speak for you...if you feel that this is such unnecessary stress physically and emotionally, then quit. it's up to you to decide but whatever you choose i'll always be here for you"... and when i go visit XYZ's house or attend a function of theirs, i do notice that they seem to have a strong bond between the actives and pledges, although a stronger bond between members of the same pledge class. So i guess hazing DOES create a sense of unity in a way but i dont agree to it to the point where they endanger lives or humiliate someone to a great extent....I mean i wasn't hazed at all and we have the same strong ties in our organization. I guess you really can't change a chapter's practices if that's what they have been doing for years and if they're unwilling to do it, then they won't.
PS: some hazing examples that I've been told: something to do w/ goldfish (eep), 48 hours of sleep deprivation, physical activities such as a "long gym class" w/ jumping jacks, push ups, etc.
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