Self-Disclosed Attitudes and Beliefs of Deviant Behavior: A Study of Greek Life Students

• In Event: Posters II

Abstract

Greek Life consists of fraternities and sororities which are considered student organizations on many college and university campuses. Previous research conducted on the Greek Life population suggests a high level of hazing, alcohol abuse, and academic misconduct. While previous research has explored the differences between Greek Life members and non-Greek members, few studies have more broadly examined deviant attitudes and beliefs of Greek Life members and non-members. The current study explored the differences in personality characteristics for Greek Life (n=120) and non-Greek Life (n=188) undergraduates at a Midwestern university. A 48-item Likert scale survey was created which assessed tendencies associated with manipulation, disregard for authority, hazing, lack of remorse, and risk taking behavior(s). Results indicated mixed findings with Greek Life members reporting higher levels of acceptance for cheating but lower levels of acceptance for more problematic behaviors such as hazing and violence. The results are important at a time when fraternities are criticized for deviant behaviors such as hazing, sexual assault, and binge drinking. However, the current study did not, overall, support significant differences in deviant behavior by Greek Life students when compared to non-Greek Life students.

Authors

• Troy Terry, Fort Hays State University

• Brian Perry, Fort Hays State University

• April Terry, Fort Hays State University

• Jennifer Pealer, East Tennessee State University