This is based upon a wide range of group activities causing harm reported from these institutions varying from no problems to some problems. However, when interaction with a group causes harm to a student, that harm can be very severe. There are a wide variety of groups involved on USM campuses, Morgan State University and St. Mary's College. Recruitment and approaches by all types of groups are a common place occurrence. Group activities can escalate into a problem, for example, recruitment can lead to inappropriate immersion into the group.
Constitutional issues are extremely important, including freedom of religion, speech and assembly.
The level of group activities on campus is known to students but is known to a much lesser degree by administrators. Resources on the campuses are not always fully prepared or known to students or parents. Education is the most promising solution to prevent harm to students. Commend the University of Maryland, College Park administration for developing an effective training program for the Resident Assistants and recommend that other institutions with reported problems consider using its program and materials as a model. Require USM institutions, Morgan State University and St. Mary's College to assess the training needed for heightened institutional awareness of potential problems of destructive groups.