Hazing underrecognized as cause of serious injury, says MGH...( put victims at risk for injuries sexua...),Health

Finkel also cites alcohol abuse as a significant factor in most hazing incidents. Not only does hazing often feature forced consumption of large amounts of alcohol "something that has led to deaths in several notorious instances" but a 1998 study by the National Intrafraternity Council found that alcohol was present in from 65 to 95 percent of traumatic hazing incidents and was a factor in 80 percent of paralyzing injuries and almost 90 percent of deaths.

Recognizing hazing victims can be difficult for health care professionals because, like domestic violence victims, the patients may hide the true cause of their injuries. Finkel notes that emergency department staff treating those who may be hazing victims should assure patients that they are safe and protected from possible retribution; carry out complete histories and examinations, including gathering possible legal evidence; explain legal options and offer social and psychiatric services; and help patients make reports to law enforcement agencies.

"There are important risk factors to watch out for, such as the patient's age, participation in athletic or military activities, and involvement of alcohol use," says Finkel. "But one of the most important warning signs might be when the patient's explanation seems inconsistent with the injuries or if the story changes; that's when we need to explore more deeply to find the answers. Health care providers need to be in the forefront of awareness and educational efforts about hazing injuries."

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Contact: Nicole Gustin
ngustin@partners.org
617-724-6425
Massachusetts General Hospital
24-May-2002