Oregon Youth Say They Played ‘Choking Game’

It’s called “the choking game” — but it’s no game. And a new survey shows that about 6 percent of Oregon youths say they have played it. On Monday, a Bend pediatrician and several parents weighed in on the dangers.

The choking game has been around for years, but experts believe videos shared on social media may be increasing the popularity.

“I mean, we didn’t even know about it,” said Bend Memorial Clinic pediatrician Jennifer Warton. “As pediatricians, believe me, we are just horrified that kids are playing this game, and the potential ramifications to what they’re doing.”

Many experts said most kids don’t realize what serious risks are involved. Many may think it’s just a silly game, but the consequences can be deadly.

“As a pediatrician, this was under the radar for us until just recently,” Warton said. “And I’m actually glad that people are trying to get this in the media more.”

Teens choke themselves, with their hands or a rope or belt, in order to reach a euphoric high when blood flow returns to the brain.

“These kids could die, and any time they play, they could die,” said Warton. “The things we think about, like these kids are playing by themselves, and some could fall and hit their head on the way down.”

Researchers say the game appeals to teens because it doesn’t cost anything, and social media shows examples of people who seem to enjoy it.

“I used to be a teacher, and teenagers always take risks,” parent Jeff Leeland said. “I know we did as kids. But I think now with social media, it’s so easy. It’s almost like a virus that it catches on with one, and it can spread so quickly. I think that’s pretty dangerous.”

In a 2010 study, researchers found 65 strangulation game videos that totaled more than 173,000 views on YouTube.

“They’re doing this, and they’re laughing about it,” parent Sara Garrett said. “That’s the real scary part, because they are cutting off their air supply and killing brain cells.”

Pediatricians said parents should keep an eye out for signs like marks on the neck, change in personality and bloodshot eyes. They also said talking to the teens in their life about the risks will help.

“Having been a teacher, I know kids talk about it, and it’s good for parents to be aware and know what their kids are getting exposed to,” Leeland said. “Because if you don’t, you’re like an ostrich sticking your head in the sand, because kids do know about it faster than we do as adults.”

Pediatricians also advise parents who think their child could be playing the game to sit down together as a family. Doctors could be included, to help with counseling.