Hazing probelms are more prevalent at the university level, not at the national level, a national hazing expert said last night.

KEVIN KLAUS/Arizona Daily Wildcat Ron Binder, a nationally recognized hazing expert, speaks about universities' roles in hazing issues last night in the Economics building. Many student organization group members were in attendance at the presentation, which covered the necessity of clearly-defined hazing policies.

Ron Binder, vice president of Gilchrist Alumni Management, a consulting firm that advises student organizations told a group of 25 people that honor societies and sports teams are also affiliated with hazing - verbal or physical abusing new members of a group.

Binder, who has spoken at more than 70 universities and colleges nationwide about student organization hazing, was brought to the University of Arizona by the Center for Student Involvement and Leadership.

"Universities have hazing problems, not individual chapters," he said.

Binder said society has developed a low tolerance of hazing and it can be seen through the number of laws banning the activity.

Currently, 43 states have passed anti-hazing laws.

Josh Surridge, vice president of public relations for the Interfraternity Council, said hazing prevention is one of the IFC's main goals.

"Events like this are a pro-active approach to address the problem," he said.

Binder said hazing is a false bond involving new members of an organization rather than the whole chapter.

Binder said hazing activities can include forced consumption of alcohol, paddling and the running of personal errands for group members.

He said hazing can occur regardless of the willingness of the participant.

"Some students might say they want to be paddled but that doesn't mean it's OK," he said.

Binder said student organizations should have a clear policy on hazing and continually educate members.

"Organizations should distribute university hazing laws to members at least once a year," he said.

Binder said organizations that practice hazing should take a serious look at what they are doing and their purpose.

He said hazing cases are one of the more expensive lawsuits and many of them settle out of court because there is nothing that can be said in defense.

"It's easy to fall in the trap of hazing," he said. "It takes more effort to have a non-hazing program than a hazing one."

Binder suggested that instead of hazing, alternative group activities such as community service projects, retreats and involvement in other student organizations should be required.

"It's important to have members join other groups because it provides a well-rounded experience," he said.