Psychological effects of ragging on students: Role of institutions, teachers and students in curbing ragging

Ragging includes any verbal, physical, or psychological act that humiliates or coerces students, especially first-year students, to perform tasks ranging from menial chores to obscene acts. In Indian colleges, ragging is often rationalised as “initiation” that forges a relationship between seniors and juniors, but sadly, ragging has devolved into systematic abuse. “Initiation” has become a paradox as students suffer in various ways, like depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts in some cases. This happens because they experience humiliation and isolation in their formative years when they are about to start their
careers. This is in stark contrast to the ethos of an institution that is supposed to nurture healers.
Ragging has profoundly damaging psychological effects on students, ranging from immediate trauma and anxiety to long-term issues like depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

1. DR MD INTEKHABUR RAHMAN PROFESSOR Former Head of the Department UNIVERSITY P. G DEPARTMENT OF PSYCHOLOGY B. N. MANDAL UNIVERSITY MADHEPURA, BIHAR PIN-852128 E-mail: [email protected]

2. Psychological effects of ragging on students: Role of institutions, teachers and students in curbing ragging

3. RAGGING According to the University Grants Commission regulations 2009: Any verbal, physical, or psychological act that humiliates or coerces students, especially first-year students, to perform tasks ranging from menial chores to obscene acts.

4. RAGGING In Indian educational institutions, ragging is often rationalized as “initiation” that forges a relationship between seniors and juniors, but sadly, ragging has devolved into systematic abuse.

5. RAGGING “Initiation” has become a paradox as students suffer in various ways, like: depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts in some cases. 2. This happens because they experience humiliation and isolation in their formative years when they are about to start their careers.

6. RAGGING Ragging has profoundly damaging psychological effects on students, ranging from immediate trauma and anxiety to long-term issues like depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Instead of being a harmless tradition, it is a serious offense that erodes confidence and harms mental well-being. 

7. Immediate psychological effects For victims, the immediate aftermath of ragging can be intensely distressing. These initial effects include: 

8. Immediate psychological effects Fear and anxiety: Students may feel constant fear and anxiety, worrying about when the next incident will occur and becoming afraid of their seniors or even the college/university environment itself.

9. Immediate psychological effects 2. Humiliation and shame: Humiliating acts and insults during ragging cause deep feelings of shame, embarrassment, and degradation.

10. Immediate psychological effects 3. Isolation: Victims often withdraw from their peers and extracurricular activities, leading to social isolation.

11. Immediate psychological effects 4. Reduced self-esteem: Being a victim of harassment and bullying can significantly damage a student's self-worth and confidence.

12. Immediate psychological effects 5. Anger and irritability: A student may experience feelings of anger and irritability, which can be directed at others or turned inward.

13. Immediate psychological effects 6. Nightmares: The trauma of ragging can lead to nightmares and other sleep disturbances. 

14. Long-term psychological effects The trauma of ragging can have lasting consequences on a student's mental health, affecting their entire academic career and beyond. 

15. Long-term psychological effects 1. Depression: The feelings of hopelessness and sadness that accompany ragging can lead to clinical depression.

16. Long-term psychological effects 2. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Severe cases of ragging can cause PTSD, a serious condition involving flashbacks, hypervigilance, and persistent anxiety.

17. Long-term psychological effects 3. Academic decline: Anxiety, poor concentration, and distress can affect a student's ability to focus on their studies, leading to reduced academic performance.

18. Long-term psychological effects 4. Suicidal ideation: In extreme cases, the psychological stress and hopelessness caused by ragging have driven some students to attempt or commit suicide.

19. Long-term psychological effects 5. Perpetuation of the cycle: Some studies have found that severe ragging victims may later become perpetrators themselves, continuing the vicious cycle.

20. Long-term psychological effects 6. Troubled interpersonal relationships: The experience of ragging can damage a student's ability to trust others and build healthy relationships in the future. 

21. Societal and institutional factors The psychological impact of ragging is often made worse by societal and institutional failures.

22. Societal and institutional factors Normalization of ragging: Some college/university cultures normalize ragging as an initiation ritual, minimizing its severity and discouraging victims from speaking out.

23. Societal and institutional factors Lack of support: Despite anti-ragging laws, victims often face inadequate support from institutional authorities, making them feel ignored and helpless.

24. Societal and institutional factors Fear of retaliation: Victims may fear further torment or social ostracization if they report the ragging, leading to underreporting. 

25. The inconsistency between anti-ragging policies and action The gap between the anti-ragging policy formulation and its actual implementation remains stark, with ragging in colleges/universities not deteriorating but rather gradually increasing.

26. The inconsistency between anti-ragging policies and action Many institutions either lack functional anti-ragging committees or don’t comply with the guidelines set by the University Grants Commission (UGC).

27. The sociological justifications framing ragging as an “initiation” also weaken efforts to implement antiragging policies and help shift values. The inconsistency between anti-ragging policies and action

28. Enforcement without awareness initiatives fails to diminish ragging, while persistent stigma discourages reporting to the anti-ragging cell, as students are constantly deceived into accepting abuse as a “rite of passage” or “respect for seniors,” though genuine respect cannot be coerced. The inconsistency between anti-ragging policies and action

29. The college authorities often downplay the issue of ragging, and disguise it as just “introduction” or as “personality development” while dismissing its true severity. The inconsistency between anti-ragging policies and action

30. Legal loopholes, including financial compensation, are frequently exploited by several accused people to defend against certain ragging allegations. The inconsistency between anti-ragging policies and action

31. Role of institutions in curbing ragging Educational institutions play a pivotal role in curbing ragging through a combination of preventive , punitive , and rehabilitative measures. By establishing a zero-tolerance policy, institutions can foster a safe, inclusive, and respectful campus environment. 

32. Preventive measures 1. Awareness and sensitization: Before the academic session starts, institutions must conduct orientation programs and campaigns to educate students, faculty, and staff about the severe consequences of ragging. This includes highlighting that ragging is a criminal offense, not a tradition.

33. 2. Mandatory undertaking: Institutions can require students and their parents to submit an online anti-ragging undertaking upon admission, committing to not participate in or condone ragging. Preventive measures

34. 3. Public declaration: Anti-ragging regulations and punishments must be publicly displayed on the institution's website, prospectus, and on prominent notice boards to ensure all stakeholders are aware of the rules and consequences. Preventive measures

35. 4. Mentoring and counseling: Creating robust mentor-mentee programs can help freshers build relationships with senior students and faculty, easing their transition into college life and reducing their vulnerability. Preventive measures

36. 5. Continuous monitoring: Anti-ragging squads composed of faculty and senior students should conduct surprise inspections in hostels, canteens, and common areas, particularly during the initial weeks of the academic year. Preventive measures

37. 6. Interactive sessions: Organizing workshops, seminars, and cultural events can help integrate new students and build camaraderie in a healthy, positive manner. Preventive measures

38. 7. Separation of students: When feasible, institutions should house first-year students in separate hostels or floors and designate different timings for the use of common facilities.  Preventive measures

39. Punitive measures 1. Strict disciplinary action: Institutions must enforce a clear set of punishments for students found guilty of ragging, as mandated by regulatory bodies like the UGC. Penalties can include: Suspension from classes Withholding of scholarships and other benefits Debarring from examinations Expulsion from the hostel or institution Cancellation of admission Rustication for a period of one to four semesters

40. 2. Collective punishment: If the perpetrators of a ragging incident cannot be identified, the institution can impose collective punishment on a group to create deterrence. Punitive measures

41. 2. Filing FIRs: In severe cases, the head of the institution must promptly file a First Information Report (FIR) with the police within 24 hours of receiving a complaint. Punitive measures

42. 3. Legal consequences: Institutions must cooperate with legal authorities to ensure that guilty students face penal consequences under the law, which can include imprisonment.  Punitive measures

43. Institutional mechanisms 1. Anti-Ragging Committee: A dedicated Anti-Ragging Committee, which includes administrators, faculty, student representatives, and sometimes parents, must be established to oversee and enforce the institution's anti-ragging policies.

44. 2. Anti-Ragging Squads: Active, on-the-ground anti-ragging squads are essential for conducting surprise raids and ensuring discipline. Institutional mechanisms

45. 3. Complaint system: An accessible and confidential complaint mechanism, such as a dedicated email ID, complaint box, or a 24/7 helpline, should be available for students to report incidents without fear. Institutional mechanisms

46. 4. Online portal: Institutions must utilize the resources provided by the UGC, including the national anti-ragging website, to verify student undertakings and process complaints. Institutional mechanisms

47. 5. Swift inquiry: Upon receiving a complaint, the institution is required to conduct a prompt and fair inquiry within seven days.  Institutional mechanisms

48. Collaborative efforts 1. National Anti-Ragging Helpline: Institutions should publicize the national helpline (1800-180-5522) so that students can report incidents at any time.

49. 2. Reporting to authorities: Institutions must report ragging incidents to the district-level anti-ragging committee and affiliated university, as well as submit an action taken report to the national helpline. Collaborative efforts

50. 3. Multi-stakeholder approach: A "whole institution" approach, involving all students, faculty, administrators, and parents, is critical for building a collective commitment against ragging.  Collaborative efforts

51. Role of teachers in curbing ragging Teachers play a critical, multi-faceted role in curbing ragging by combining proactive prevention with strong, supportive intervention. By serving as mentors, counselors, and enforcers of policy, faculty members are essential in fostering a safe and respectful campus environment. 

52. 1. Foster positive relationships:  Teachers should build friendly and approachable relationships with students to make it easier for them to report incidents or discuss concerns. When juniors see faculty as allies, they are more likely to seek help. Pre-emptive and proactive measures

53. 2. Establish a zero-tolerance culture:  Faculty must explicitly and repeatedly communicate that ragging is unacceptable and a punishable offense. This is more effective when combined with awareness drives, workshops, and seminars that promote empathy and kindness. Pre-emptive and proactive measures

54. 3. Organize anti-ragging committees:  As part of a larger institutional effort, teachers should be key members of anti-ragging committees and squads. This ensures they are part of a coordinated effort with administrators and senior students. Pre-emptive and proactive measures

55. 4. Increase campus monitoring:  Especially during the initial weeks of a new academic year, teachers should increase their presence and visibility around campus, including hostels, canteens, and other common areas. This serves as a deterrent to potential offenders. Pre-emptive and proactive measures

56. 5. Counsel students on the dangers of ragging :  Faculty can help educate both seniors and juniors. They should counsel seniors on the negative consequences of ragging, and advise juniors on strategies to safely de-escalate situations and report harassment.  Pre-emptive and proactive measures

57. Intervention and enforcement measures 1. Respond to complaints immediately:  When a complaint is received, teachers must act with urgency and confidentiality. This includes informing the head of the institution and the anti-ragging committee so that an official inquiry can begin within seven days.

58. 2. Follow established reporting procedures:  If a situation warrants it, teachers must follow institutional guidelines for filing a First Information Report (FIR) with the police within 24 hours. The report should detail potential charges, such as criminal intimidation, assault, or sexual offenses, depending on the severity of the incident. Intervention and enforcement measures

59. 3. Conduct fair inquiries:  During an investigation, teachers must ensure a fair and unbiased inquiry. When a student is found guilty, faculty should support the institutional policies that lead to appropriate and strict punishment. Intervention and enforcement measures

60. Intervention and enforcement measures 4. Protect the victim:  Teachers must ensure that a victim of ragging receives adequate support and protection. They should make sure the victim is not further victimized, harassed, or coerced into dropping the complaint.

61. 5. Promote collective responsibility: If the culprits are not identified, teachers can advocate for collective punishment to be imposed. This deters future incidents by holding the wider student body accountable for the campus culture.  Intervention and enforcement measures

62. Role of students in curbing ragging Students play a vital and multi-faceted role in curbing ragging, from prevention to intervention and creating a positive, respectful campus culture. Their actions, both individually and collectively, are essential to ending this harmful practice. 

63. 1. Become mentors, not tormentors:  Rather than using intimidation, seniors should actively guide and support juniors. They can offer academic advice, help them navigate campus, and introduce them to college life in a welcoming manner. Role of senior students

64. 2. Model positive behavior:  Seniors should lead by example by showing respect and empathy toward their juniors. This demonstrates that a healthy, friendly senior-junior relationship is the standard, not the exception. Role of senior students

65. 3. Break the cycle:  Students who have been ragged should not inflict the same pain on their juniors. By refusing to perpetuate the cycle, they can be powerful agents of change. Role of senior students

66. 4. Speak up:  If they witness a ragging incident, senior students have a responsibility to intervene and report it. Being a silent bystander only enables the behavior. Role of senior students

67. 5. Encourage reporting:  Create a safe space for juniors to confide in them. Assure new students that they can be trusted and that reports will be handled responsibly.  Role of senior students

68. Role of junior students and freshers 1. Know your rights:  Freshers should be aware of what constitutes ragging and that it is a serious offense punishable by law. Knowing their rights empowers them to recognize and resist abusive behavior .

69. 2. Do not suffer in silence:  It is crucial for freshers to report any incidents of ragging, no matter how minor they seem. They should not feel ashamed or embarrassed. Role of junior students and freshers

70. 3. Report immediately:  Students should report incidents to their institution's anti-ragging committee, faculty, or a trusted adult. The national anti-ragging helpline is also available. Role of junior students and freshers

71. 4. Move in groups: Freshers should try to stick together, especially during the initial weeks. This provides a sense of security and deters potential harassers. Role of junior students and freshers

72. 5. Utilize reporting channels:  Use official anti-ragging apps or websites to file a formal complaint.  Role of junior students and freshers

73. Role of all students 1. Be a vigilant bystander:  If you witness any form of ragging, step in if it is safe to do so. You can also discreetly inform a teacher or a member of the anti-ragging squad.

74. 2. Build an inclusive environment:  Simple acts of kindness, like inviting a lonely student to lunch or starting a conversation, can help integrate new students and combat the social isolation that often makes them targets. Role of all students

75. 3. Promote awareness:  Actively participate in and support anti-ragging workshops, seminars, and campaigns organized by the institution. Help spread the message that ragging is unacceptable. Role of all students

76. 4. Form student-led anti-ragging groups: Create peer support networks that encourage open communication and provide a safe space for students to discuss their concerns. Role of all students

77. 5. Challenge justifications for ragging:  Actively counter false beliefs that ragging is a "tradition" or "icebreaker." Educate fellow students on its harmful physical and psychological effects.  Role of all students

78. Conclusion Ragging is a cancer in the education system and can be stopped by ending this cycle and acknowledging the trauma and humiliation it causes. Interaction between students is important but in a kind and holistic approach. Seniors feel justified in ragging juniors because they were ragged; this abusive cycle should be changed.

79. Anti-ragging laws must be strictly enforced, and both disciplinary and cultural committees should be established as effective measures for curbing ragging. Conclusion

80. Additionally, educational programs must be implemented to raise awareness regarding the harmful effects of ragging. Awareness is necessary to curb ragging, as the underreporting of such incidents continues due to a lack of understanding of anti-ragging laws among students and even faculty. Strict institutional efforts are also necessary, like treating any form of ragging as grounds for rustication. Conclusion

81. Considering the academic stress faced by students, particularly those who have experienced ragging, ensuring mental health support such as counselling and wellness programmes must be prioritised on campuses. Together these efforts can create a safer and more supportive environment for medical students who are our future healers. Conclusion

82. SAy NO TO RAGGING Thank you