# The phenomenon of ragging: violence among university students in Sri Lanka

## TL;DR

This study examines ragging, a harmful initiation practice in Sri Lankan universities, and its mental health effects, revealing high prevalence and the need for intervention.

## Contribution

The study provides new sociocultural and public health insights into ragging in Sri Lankan universities and offers policy recommendations.

## Key findings

- 59% of students experienced ragging, with 54% reporting health consequences.
- 31% of students experienced Major Depressive Disorder, linked to ethnicity.
- Ragging is used to establish power and address social inequalities.

## Abstract

Ragging is an initiation ritual in Sri Lankan universities where senior students harass newcomers. This practice leads to severe consequences such as depression, increased dropouts, and suicide, yet research on this issue remains scarce.

This thesis aimed to explore ragging through the perspectives of students and university affiliates and to assess the prevalence of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) among students.

Study I was a cross-sectional survey (n = 623) among second- and third-year students from the Faculties of Medicine and Technology to determine the prevalence of ragging and its health consequences. Study II utilized focus group discussions (n = 17) with students to explore the social dynamics and motivations of ragging. Study III included focus group discussions (n = 7) and interviews (n = 11) with university staff to understand their attitudes towards ragging. Study IV surveyed second-year students (n = 637) from three faculties using the Patient Health Questionnaire to assess the prevalence of MDD.

Study I found that 59% of students experienced ragging, 54% reported health consequences, and most sought help from friends and family. Ragging prevalence varied by faculty and year of study. Study II revealed that ragging was used to establish power and address social inequalities. Study III identified themes of normalization, fear of reprisal, and resistance among staff. Study IV showed that 31% of students experienced MDD. MDD prevalence was associated with students’ ethnicity.

Ragging is a pervasive issue with significant mental health consequences. Effective interventions require a multisectoral approach to create a safe and supportive university environment, enabling all students to thrive.

Main findings: Ragging was experienced by 59%, 54% reported health consequences, and 31% experienced Major Depressive Disorder, while students used ragging to establish power and address social inequalities.

Added knowledge: This thesis provides new insight into ragging as a sociocultural and public health issue in Sri Lankan universities. The study highlights how societal inequalities, institutional weaknesses, and cultural norms sustain ragging, offering recommendations to promote safer and more supportive university environments.

Global health impact for policy and action: Ragging is a major public health and education concern in South Asia. Policies should integrate mental health support, violence prevention, and stronger enforcement of anti-ragging measures. A coordinated effort among universities, health authorities, and policymakers is essential to create safer, more supportive learning environments.