Perceptions of hazing among young male United States military service members: A qualitative analysis

Abstract

This study examines hazing among a sample of young male service members in the United States (US) military. Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with active duty service members (N = 10) aged 18 to 24 at a large Southeastern US Army post to examine their conceptualization of hazing. Thematic analysis revealed three emergent themes: (1) the definition of hazing and hazing behaviors; (2) the ritualistic nature of hazing; and (3) the sexual nature of hazing. Most participants provided their own definition of hazing. One participant had difficulty in differentiating between hazing and bullying, the others had distinct definitions as they relate to motives. Results are consistent with prior research indicating that service members lack a full understanding of what constitutes hazing attributes and demonstrate an inability to accurately define hazing in line with current US military policy. Investigation into understanding hazing in the US military is warranted, including the intersection between sexual victimization and hazing. Thus, prevention programming is needed to reduce hazing, and ameliorate negative mental, emotional, and physical outcomes that result from these acts in the military.

Keywords

• Hazing
• military
• service members