the pledging period is a time when the pledge is not yet a full member, and may leave or be refused membership at any time. sometimes, members of the chapter will put the pledge through trials. sometimes they are tests on the history of the fraternity they are trying to join, wearing a badge with the fraternity's letters on it at all times, or performing public service. sometimes the trials are cruel, dangerous or humiliating. if the trials are cruel, it is called "hazing". hazing is illegal in 44 states.