CBC, CTV: FKRM researcher isn’t surprised to hear about latest case of hazing allegations

As reported by the CBC, and by CTV below:

A University of Manitoba hazing researcher says it’s a good time for schools to have a conversation about abuse.

Dr jay johnson’s message comes as students at a private boys school in Toronto face charges of assault, gang sexual assault and sexual assault with a weapon.

Johnson, a Faculty of Kinesiology and Recreation Management associate professor, said it’s important for schools to have discussions and a plan to understand risks and dangers.

[Video]: jay johnson speaks with the CBC about the allegations of hazing and sexual assault at St. Michael’s College school in Toronto.

“Having clearly defined definitions of what constitutes hazing, clearly defined policies. When something happens, how do we deal with it, what are the sanctions. Education, in all of these facets. What do we do to prevent hazing,” said johnson.

He said there is a history of hazing in public schools, but it is more common in private and prep schools.

Over the last 15 years girls playing sports like hockey and rugby are taking part in some of the same hazing as boys, he added.

Johnson said it’s important to create alternative opportunities for bonding, like outdoor team-building events or cooking.

And, in a CBC report,  johnson said he isn’t surprised to hear about this latest allegation of hazing on a sports team. What’s different, he said, is that criminal charges have been laid. This hasn’t always been the case.

“If you go back to the 2005 case with the McGill Redmen, where the football team had its season cancelled [due to hazing and alleged sexual assaults], no charges were laid,” johnson added.