Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #266267 in Books
• Published on: 2000-09
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 160 pages

From Booklist
Filled with painful stories of initiation rites that have ended in humiliation, legal action, and even death, this book deflates the notion that hazing is a harmless way to build group unity. It's shown, instead, as a power play of intimidation and peer pressure that, especially during the adolescent years, is nearly impossible to withstand. Nuwer examines a range of activities that can be considered hazing, from embarrassing stunts and alcohol consumption to real or simulated sex acts and beatings. He also links hazing to much more graphic rites, such as gang initiations. The organization of the text is too loose, and the narrative gets repetitive at times. But the author's passion is clear, and his closing chapters on legislation and ways to stop hazing make his book a real call to action. Source notes; list of resources and organizations. Randy Meyer

Customer Reviews

Such an important topic!
Hazing is an often neglected but important topic that deserves the serious treatment given by author. A victim and perpetuator of hazing himself, Nuwer depicts hazing as a "tradition of deceit," and a series of dangerous acts designed to foster bonding and acceptance.

In a startling mix of information, photographs and personal accounts, the book describes hazing as an ancient practice that has endured and become increasingly deadly. Hazing encompasses more than binge drinking and paddling; it spans all ages, and stems from the need to control others and the need to be accepted. Hazing can begin as early as grammar school, and has been documented in the military, in secret societies, in gangs, on sports teams, and even in some professions. Some of the violations committed include performing sex acts, shoplifting, paddling, alcohol abuse, sleep deprivation, and confinement.

Nuwer's description of hazing is shocking and disturbing, as it should be. High School Hazing will enlighten and inform readers about this phenomenon. One area of the book that could be stronger is the conclusion, which provides preliminary suggestions on how to stop hazing. The points serve more as "things to keep in mind," or as warning signs to identify hazing, but much more description and guidance is needed before a participant could successfully stop a hazing ritual or organization.

This book would be an important addition to both school and public libraries. This is an imperative piece of knowledge young adults should be exposed to as soon as possible.

High School Hazing
Who thought high school hazing was a problem? An excellent factual resource for all school administraters, teachers, coaches, students and parents. How to identify hazing and how to deal with it. Why are so many people OK with some forms of hazing, is assualt and harrassment OK? Those that were hazed and now haze--does that make it ok? I didn't know it was even a high school problem until it was exposed in our school. A must for every high school library. A vivid and heartbreaking account of hazing, a real educational resource. An excellent and much needed book, read it and make sure it's in your school library.