What is the difference in'boys being boys' and hazing?

[packsaddle]

NJCubScouter,

I hope he arrived too tired to tell you all the fun he had. But you are correct in your anxiety. Eventually, he may encounter a situation, perhaps hazing, that will make him question things. It happened to my son and many of my other recent Eagles. In each case, either with me or with their parents, they reached a decision point: leave scouts or stay and confront the situation and see the completion of their goal. This usually occurs just before or just after First Class. If they decide to make the commitment, some time later while they are well on their way they discover that they are enjoying it again (usually around Star). And looking back from Eagle is an even better perspective. They may face this decision many times in their lives. I wish your son and you success.

[Eagledad]

Wow Sharon, I just read your last post. I think your Troop choose their SM wisely.

 

I love this Scouting stuff.

 

Barry

[SharonNC]

Hi Barry,

Thanks! I love this scouting stuff, too! Makes me happy to know that there are boys that want to do the right thing. Our SPL was very effective last night (at our troop meeting) in explaining the difference in 'jokes' and 'threats' We had a good roundtable discussion of what is acceptable and what is not. The boys decided that suspension would be the best thing for anyone that puts their hands on another Scout or threatens another Scout. They can be very 'adult' like in their discussions. It renewed my 'want to' spirit!

Sharon

 

[Eagledad]

>>They can be very 'adult' like in their discussions.

[KoreaScouter]

Sorry, got into this one a little late. What's the difference between boys-being-boys and hazing? To answer, I'm reminded of the Supreme Court Justice who, referring to pornography, said he couldn't define it, but he knows it when he sees it. I'd argue the same for hazing. So situational, there's no pat answer...

 

KS