Recently reported on the Today Show, the Choking Game is a dangerous and growing activity among youth and young adults, especially among middle schoolers.

What is it? As written on www.ChokingGame.net: “The Choking Game is played in both in groups and by a lone child. The object of the ‘game’ is asphyxiation, as in,  to apply pressure to restrict oxygen and/or blood flow to the brain of the victim.  This is accomplished by neck constriction and/or chest compression sometimes including  hyperventilation.  Diminishing oxygen to the brain produces a sensation.  The ‘high’ are the cells of the brain seizing and beginning the process of permanent cell death.  When the victim is rendered unconscious,  the pressure is released and the secondary ‘high’ of the oxygen/blood rushing to the brain is achieved. If the victim is alone – upon unconsciousness there is no one to release the pressure and the victims own body weight continues to tighten the ligature usually resulting in death.”

How prevalent is the Choking Game? 45 states have reported cases of the Choking Game. Survey results reported in 2009 of 2,504 youth surveyed in Ontario, Canada and Texas showed 68% had heard of the Choking Game, 45% knew someone who had played it, 6.6% had participated in it, and 40% perceived no risk from playing. Almost seven times more male youth reportedly participate than female youth. There is no “typical” youth who plays the Choking Game. Well-adjusted, high achieving students play and may think it’s a safe alternatives to getting high without drugs or alcohol. The game can be fatal! Some estimates place the number of choking deaths between 250 and 1,000 each year.

What are the signs that a young person is participating in the Choking Game?

• Frequent often severe headaches
• Inexplicable bruising or red linear marks around the neck
• Bloodshot eyes and/or Petechiae (tiny red dots) on face
• Changes in attitude (overly aggressive)
• Disorientation and/or grogginess after being alone
• Unusual demands for privacy
• Curiosity about asphyxiation (i.e “how’s it feel”, “what happens if”)
• Locked or blocked bedroom/bathroom doors
• Ligatures  (bed sheets, belts, tee-shirts, ties, ropes) tied in strange knots and/or found in unusual places
• Internet history of websites(YouTube.com, MySpace.com)  mentioning Choking Game
• Wear marks on furniture (ex: bunk beds, closet rods)

What can parents do? Talk to kids about the Choking Game and start early. Though the median age of youth who play this game is 13.5, younger and older youth are known to play the game. Talk about the dangers and keep talking to children as they get older.

For more information, check out these websites:

ChokingGame.net

G.A.S.P. (Games Adolescents Shouldn’t Play

Risky Business: The Choking Game