Examining factors perceived to enable and deter student reports of hazing.

Abstract

Objective: This investigation employed qualitative methods to examine factors perceived to enable or deter student reports of hazing. Participants: Data were collected from campus staff members (n = 100) and students (n = 64) at six universities participating in the Hazing Prevention Consortium through IRB-approved interviews and focus groups. Methods: The authors utilized an interpretive qualitative approach to answer the research questions. Two rounds of inductive coding were completed, and themes were constructed around salient codes. Findings: Analysis illuminated that student emphasis on relationships and connections, student conceptualizations of hazing, and student understanding of their institutional contexts were factors weighed before deciding to disclose an incident of hazing. Conclusion: Findings contribute new knowledge and add to the literature about hazing prevention and contextualize student reporting practices. Recommendations for research and practice are provided.