Dr Andrew appears on ABC News and NBC Today to discuss the tragedy of this risky adolescent behavior that is also known as “flatliner”.
Dr Andrew is a recognized expert on the choking game, having published several papers and articles. He appeared on both ABC News and NBC Today, to offer input on this tragic phenomenon that is being spread through the internet.
Typically, children aged 9 to 14 get involved in these dangerous games, sometimes in groups but sometimes alone. They strangle themselves with the intent of getting a “rush of euphoria” or “high” as they regain consciousness. No matter the name used, it is dangerous and, while it has been around for decades, has become common again in recent years. See related video.
Beyond the “rush” experienced, and the belief that it is a low-risk activity, research has suggested additional anecdotal motivations for practicing the choking game:
- It is considered a rite of passage or a challenge that can increase peer pressure, in order to be introduced into a social group.
- To provide amusement, as a result of erratic behavior, again to be accepted.
- Curiosity, as an imagined approximation to a near-death experience.
- The prospect of intoxication, without drugs of alcohol, at no financial cost.
- The brain is effectively short circuited by the lack of oxygen, and it can trigger seizures that can damage the brain and even lead to death.
The biggest risks involve children doing this alone. On their own, they may be severely injured in a fall or be killed because of asphyxiation. The numbers of children involved are difficult to track since it is often treated as a suicide by the authorities. It is estimated that between 7-15% of children between the ages of 9 and 14 have tried this, and no school district is without it.
The Choking Game has been known for generations, however it has become more widespread because of being circulated on the Internet, predominantly by the proliferation of online videos via channels such as You Tube.
Dr Andrew advises that all parents, guardians, mentors and teachers should be alert to the signs that a child is taking part in the choking game. In addition, Internet sites should be supervised.
