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The Sisterhood Paradox: Leadership Learning, Thriving, and Risk in Sorority Communities
Freddy Juarez1, Brittany Devies1
1Fraternity and Sorority Life, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA.
New Directions for Student Leadership
|May 20, 2026
Summary
Social sisterhood in sororities can be a double-edged sword. While fostering community, it may also increase risks like binge drinking and hazing tolerance among members.
Area of Science:
- Social Science
- Psychology
- Public Health
Background:
- Sororities are social organizations for women.
- Understanding the impact of social dynamics within sororities is crucial for member well-being.
- Previous research has not fully explored the dual nature of sisterhood in relation to specific risky behaviors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the association between perceived social sisterhood and alcohol consumption, binge drinking, hazing tolerance, and hazing rationale.
- To provide implications for leadership educators and organizational advisors.
- To highlight leadership education as a tool for prevention education.
Main Methods:
- Repeated cross-sectional design over four academic years (2021-2024).
- Pooled ordinary least squares regression models with chapter fixed effects.
- Sample of 11,832 sorority members across 25 chapters at a large public university in the Southeast.
Main Results:
- Perceived social sisterhood is associated with alcohol consumption and binge drinking.
- Social sisterhood also correlates with increased tolerance for and rationale behind hazing.
- Findings suggest a complex relationship where community can coexist with increased behavioral risk.
Conclusions:
- Social sisterhood acts as a double-edged sword within sororities.
- Leadership education is essential for prevention strategies.
- Interventions should address the nuanced impact of sisterhood on risk behaviors.
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