In light of reports of hazing at Maine West High School in Des Plaines and Hoffman Estates High School, the Daily Herald reported what experts on the subject had to say about what it is, why it persists, what can be done about it and more.

In a Patch poll which asked readers, are schools doing enough to stop hazing, bullying?, 39 readers voted no, schools are too often a breeding ground for this type of behavior. Eight readers voted yes, the ultimate responsibility falls on the students and their parents, not the schools.

Four families of current or former Maine West students filed a hazing and bullying complaint against Maine Township High School District 207 administrators, faculty, coaches and staff in November.

The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services referred allegations Illinois’ Abused and Neglected Child Reporting Act was violated by Maine West or D-207 to the Cook County State’s Attorney Office, DCFS stated on Dec. 3.

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