UMaine research cited in Independent Lens ‘Hazing’ documentary

A film that began airing on PBS stations this week cites a 2008 University of Maine study on the prevalence of hazing among college students. According to the National Study of Student Hazing led by professor of higher education Elizabeth Allan, 55% of college students who participate in clubs, teams and organizations experience hazing, but only 5% of college students admit to being hazed. Hazing is any activity expected of someone joining or participating in a group that humiliates, degrades, abuses, or endangers them, regardless of their willingness to participate. Former UMaine faculty member Mary Madden, who worked on the study with Allan is featured in the documentary. “Hazing” was written and directed by filmmaker Byron Hurt for the PBS series Independent Lens.