News and Commentary

Oxford University Student Council Bans Clapping Over Fears It May Trigger Anxiety

Emily Zanotti
Oxford University Student Council Bans Clapping Over Fears It May Trigger Anxiety
Photo by: Geography Photos/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Oxford University’s student union has instituted an unofficial ban on clapping during student functions over fears the loud noise may trigger anxiety and the rapid hand movements and noise could alienate students who are unable or unwilling to clap.

The Daily Mail reports that students and faculty are instead being encouraged to use “jazz hands” and other silent means of assent, and to explore using alternatives to clapping for meetings and gatherings.

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