US Trends

which of the following is not included in hazing behaviors? sabotage guilting behaviors volatility taking responsibility

The correct answer is: taking responsibility.

Why this is the correct choice

In most educational and prevention materials about hazing, the term “hazing behaviors” refers to actions that are harmful, abusive, coercive, or degrading toward others in a group or team context.

Common types of hazing-related behaviors include:

  • Sabotage – deliberately undermining someone’s performance, reputation, or relationships in the group.
  • Guilting behaviors – manipulating someone with guilt or pressure so they feel forced to participate in harmful or unwanted activities.
  • Volatility – unpredictable outbursts, intimidation, or emotional/physical aggression that create fear or distress in new or lower-status members.

All three of these – sabotage, guilting behaviors, and volatility – fit within the spectrum of hazing behaviors because they:

  • Create a power imbalance
  • Cause emotional, psychological, or physical harm
  • Are often used to control or pressure group members

By contrast, taking responsibility is generally considered a positive, pro-social, and ethical behavior.

  • It involves acknowledging harm, owning one’s actions, and seeking to repair or prevent damage.
  • It is part of healthy leadership and accountability, not hazing.

Therefore, among the options:

  • Sabotage – included in hazing behaviors
  • Guilting behaviors – included in hazing behaviors
  • Volatility – included in hazing behaviors
  • Taking responsibility – not included in hazing behaviors

So, if the question is “Which of the following is not included in hazing behaviors?”, the best choice is taking responsibility.