The Blackout Challenge, also known as the Choking Game, is a deadly game that has been gaining popularity among adolescents and young adults. The game involves cutting off oxygen to the brain by strangulation or suffocation to achieve a brief high. Unfortunately, many people who play this awful so-called game do not survive it.
Despite its dangers, the Blackout Challenge continues to be played by people of various ages across the globe. Why? This article will explore the game’s origins and what drives people to take such a deadly risk. We’ll also look at why the challenge is so dangerous. Finally, we’ll offer suggestions on how to talk with your child about this dangerous game.
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What Is the Blackout Challenge on Social Media?
The Blackout Challenge is a game that has been around for many years, although it has only recently gained popularity due to the rise of social media and TikTok videos with this harmful and dangerous challenge. The game is also known as the Choking Game, Fainting Game, Flatliner, Pass-Out Challenge, and Scarf Game. It involves cutting off oxygen to the brain by strangulation or suffocation to achieve a brief high.
There are two main ways people play the Blackout Challenge. The first is using a noose or scarf to tie around the neck and gradually tighten it until consciousness is lost. The second way is by pressurizing the chest so that blood cannot flow properly to the brain. This can be done by lying face down on a hard surface and having someone sit on your back or hanging upside down.
When Did the Blackout Challenge Start?
No one is quite sure when the blackout challenge started. However, it is believed to have originated on YouTube in early 2012. The trend gained popularity among teenagers and young adults, who would film themselves choking on various objects, including food, drinks, and even cigarettes.
In some cases, participants would also choke each other or themselves for the amusement of their viewers. While the blackout challenge video was intended to be humorous, it quickly became apparent that it could also be extremely dangerous. In 2014, a 14-year-old girl from Florida died after she choked herself while doing the challenge. This tragedy brought national attention to the dangers of the blackout challenge and led to a virtual ban on the trend. Despite this, the blackout challenge continues to be popular among thrill-seekers, with occasional videos popping up on social media.
Why Is This Challenge So Dangerous?
There are many reasons why the blackout challenge is so dangerous. Below are some of the most common dangers associated with the game:
- Suffocation: For many people, the blackout challenge is a silly game. But they don’t realize that this challenge can be quite dangerous. The body requires oxygen to function properly, and cells begin to die without it. When someone covers their nose and mouth with their hands and then tries to breathe, they suffocate. Some people have even died from participating in the blackout challenge. So next time you think about participating in this so-called game, remember that it could be your last breath.
- Brain damage: Another danger of the blackout challenge is brain damage. When oxygen is cut off from the brain, it can cause serious damage. In some cases, this damage can be permanent. According to the CDC, there have been 82 deaths associated with the game in the United States alone. Many of these deaths have been caused by brain damage.
- Neck injuries: The blackout challenge can also cause neck injuries. When the game is played using a noose or scarf, the person is likely to be strangled. This can lead to serious neck injuries or even death.
- Hemorrhaging: One of the most dangerous aspects of the blackout challenge is the potential for hemorrhaging. When someone cuts off oxygen to their brain, it can cause their blood vessels to rupture. This can lead to internal bleeding and potentially fatal consequences.
- Seizure: Another danger associated with the blackout challenge is a seizure. When oxygen is cut off from the brain, it can cause a person to have a seizure. This can be extremely dangerous and can even lead to death.
- Coma: In some cases, the blackout challenge can lead to a coma. When someone cuts off oxygen to their brain for too long, it can cause them to go into a coma. This can be a life-threatening condition and should be avoided at all costs.
- Death: Perhaps the most dangerous consequence of the blackout challenge is death. When someone cuts off oxygen to their brain for too long, it can cause them to die. This is a tragic and preventable way to die. So if you’re considering playing the game, be aware of the risks involved.
How to Talk to Kids About This Dangerous Challenge?
If you’re a parent, you know how important it is to talk to your kids about the dangers of weird challenges in general and the blackout challenge in particular. Here are some ways you can talk to your kids about this dangerous game:
- Educate yourself about the challenge: Before you talk to your kids about the blackout challenge, educate yourself about the game. This way, you’ll be able to answer any questions they may have.
- Explain the dangers of the challenge: Once you’ve educated yourself about the game, it’s time to explain the dangers to your kids. Be sure to emphasize the potentially fatal consequences of playing the game.
- Educate your child that the challenge is manipulative, pointless, and extremely harmful. The idea behind these challenges is to dare someone to do something (oftentimes harmful or dangerous), and this is a way too manipulative idea. So children should be educated on how to think critically and not fall victim to manipulators. Understanding the pointlessness of such challenges will definitely help.
- Discuss alternative activities: After you’ve explained the dangers of the blackout challenge, discuss alternative activities that are safe and fun. This will help your kids understand that there are other ways to have fun without risking their lives.
- Supervise your kids: Once you’ve talked to them about the blackout challenge, supervise them. This way, you can make sure they’re not playing the game.
- Seek professional help: If you’re concerned that your child is participating in the blackout challenge, seek professional help. You can get them the help they need to stay safe.
Conclusion
The risks involved in the blackout challenges are serious and should not be taken lightly. If you’re thinking about playing this dangerous game, be sure to consider the risks involved. There are many dangers associated with the blackout challenge, including brain damage, neck injuries, hemorrhaging, seizures, coma, and death. So please think twice before participating in this deadly game.
