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Hazing Information for Parents and Families

Families play an important role in helping students make safe choices as they get involved on campus. This page explains what hazing can look like, the warning signs to watch for, and how to talk with your student about it. For FSC's full hazing policy, reporting options, and resources, visit Hazing Prevention.
Hazing Prevention File a Report Online

What Types of Groups Haze?

Hazing can happen in any type of student organization on campus, and at any point in a student's membership experience, whether they are trying to join a group or maintain their membership.

Possible Warning Signs for Parents and Families

Your student may show different behaviors at different points in the semester, most often during the first six to eight weeks. Warning signs may include:

  • Chronic fatigue or disrupted sleep
  • Unkempt appearance
  • Wearing the same clothes daily
  • Changes in communication habits or increased social isolation
  • Lack of appetite
  • Inconsistent class attendance
  • Lack of enthusiasm for usual activities, depression, or mood swings
  • Declining grades, missing assignments, or not participating in class
  • Carrying unusual items in pockets, backpacks, or fanny packs
  • Increased incidents of alcohol intoxication or drug misuse
  • Leaving their residence in the early morning hours and not returning until the next day or later (unexplained disappearances)

How to Support Your Student

  • Actively listen to your student.
  • Ask open-ended questions to learn as many details as possible.
  • Validate their experience and let them know the behavior is not okay.
  • Encourage your student to report their experience to fscjustask@flsouthern.edu.
  • Make a report. Include as many details as possible to help investigators.

Can Parents Make a Report?

Yes. Anyone can submit a report, and reports may be made anonymously. We strongly encourage parents and families to speak up if they believe their student may be in danger or may need to be connected to campus resources.

When filling out the report, please include as many details as possible, such as the names of the students involved, the organization, and any days, times, or locations of possible hazing activities. Please also describe any unusual behaviors you have noticed in your student.

File a Report Online