Parents, there is new
"game" you better watch for. It is the game of choking oneself to
achieve a short high. It appears to be spreading -- and both daughters and sons
are playing it (although the CDC reported that more deaths occurred with boys
ages 11 to 16). There are even You Tube videos teaching kids how to do it. The
problem is there is no safe way to learn and, when you are that close to the
line, many kids accidentally go over it.
More than 60 deaths have occurred dude to the
choking game since 2005 according to the CDC (Center for Disease Control). The web site (GASP Games Teens Shouldn't Play) reported 65 children died in
2007 alone. This number is probably understated because the choking game deaths
involve accidental strangulation with a rope or belt which often looks like
suicide.
This game is played in a
variety of ways, but the goal is to deprive the brain of oxygen long enough to
create a feeling of euphoria before passing out. They may use their hands to
squeeze the necks of friends or they may use computer cords, scarves or ropes.
In another version, kids bend down and try to induce hyperventilation by taking
deep breaths followed by a “bear hug” from a friend.
One important note for parents
is that the game is not the same thing as autoerotic asphyxiation (another
risky behavior that tends to be practiced by older teens and adults), in which
masturbation and asphyxia are combined to achieve a more powerful orgasm.
What parents should look for if they are concerned with their
children playing this game:
1. Listen to your kids talk. Words such
as flat liner, black out, fainting game, dream game, and space cowboy are a
few.
2. Look for blood shot eyes with your
child.
3. If your child complains of a
lot of headaches (and hasn't done this before).
4. If your child has red marks around
their necks or small red dots on their neck.
5. Look at your child's room. Are
there scarves tied on the furniture, door knob, lying on the floor. Are there
leashes or dog collars lying on the floor? Is this unusual? When you ask your
teen about it what do they say?
The best way
to prevent your child from being a statistic is to talk to your child. Bring up
a discussion at dinner about this topic and talk to your child about it. What
causes it? How do they feel about it? Do they know anyone who does this? Kids
who participate in this game often times feel unconnected to the family and
alone. They may suffer from depression and a parent thought it was normal teen
behavior. Talk to your kids, listen to them, and hug them. They are teens, but
they need you more than ever before.
For more information go to: www.maryjorapini.com
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