Exploring the Perceived Impact of a Multi-Year Campus Hazing Prevention Initiative at Eight Universities

Abstract

Guided by the Hazing Prevention Framework, this investigation employed quantitative and qualitative methods to examine the perceived impact of a 3-year, multi-campus initiative to implement a comprehensive, public health-based approach to campus hazing prevention. Data were collected from campus staff employed at eight universities participating in the Hazing Prevention Consortium by using the Hazing Prevention Rubric and conducting follow-up interviews. Analysis of rubric scores revealed an average increase of 18.66%, suggesting overall progression for these campuses. Qualitative analysis illuminated commitment, capacity, assessment, planning, implementation, evaluation, cultural competence, and sustainability themes and provided further context for interpreting rubric scores. Factors perceived to strongly influence the progression of hazing prevention included the presence of a network of peers for collaboration and assessment data to guide prevention and factors perceived to influence regression included the challenges related to COVID-19 and the lack of senior leader commitment to hazing prevention. Findings contribute new knowledge and add to the literature about hazing prevention and rubrics for evaluating campus-wide prevention initiatives. Recommendations for research and practice are provided.