Letter to the editor

Hazing needs to be seriously addressed

Kudos to the editorial board of the Daily Bruin.

As a hazing expert and psychologist, I agree that Matt’s
Law is not enough.

As you say, hazing is deeply ingrained and will not end by just
creating bigger punishments.

That is why governors, university presidents, athletic directors
and Greek leaders need to take hazing seriously by providing money
to develop meaningful prevention and intervention programs.

Hazing perpetrators know that their actions are illegal, however
they believe that the code of silence will kick in and they will
not be held responsible for their actions.

In truth, it is not only the perpetrators, but the bystanders
(those watching) who are also supporting the hazing activities. Not
until we change the culture of hazing, empower the bystanders, and
take the whole issue seriously will hazing end.

Matt’s Law, however, has some important points.

For example, it allows students in high school as well as
workers on the job to be protected.

It may also be that hazing will truly end when it becomes too
expensive and the insurance companies start requiring a stronger
anti-hazing program to be implemented.

When the premiums increase on university campuses, in high
schools and in other groups that haze, the impetus to stop hazing
may finally come from the top (administrators) and the bottom (your
wallet).

Dr. Susan Lipkins Port Washington, N.Y.