Hazing: group bonding tradition or deadly safety hazard?

Some argue that hazing in college fraternities and athletics promote group cohesiveness and bonding.

But according to data compiled by Bloomberg News, there have been more than 60 fraternity-linked deaths in the past eight years.

Recent incidents include a student who died at Penn State. And at Carleton College in Minnesota, there was an alleged sexual assault following a hazing incident.

So why does hazing persist? How dangerous is it, and what can be done to stop it?

MPR News host Kerri Miller talked to hazing prevention advocate Lianne Kowiak who lost a 19-year-old son due to fraternity hazing, and journalist Hank Nuwer, who's written many books on the subject of hazing.

Use the audio player above to hear their conversation.

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