Most people are unaware of the “choking game.”

It consists of self strangulation or strangulation by another individual by using hands or a noose.

The purpose is to decease the amount of blood going to the brain. This provides a feeling of euphoria or the sense of well-being.

Other names for the choking game are blackout, pass out, and scarf games.

It differs from choking to become sexually stimulated. This is done usually by adolescents and young adults. Those who participate in choking games are younger. In one study the average age was 13.

A recent study of the children who died while participating in the game showed that 86% were males. 96% of the times the person was alone. And, 93% of the parents, prior to the death of their child, were not aware that the choking game existed.

Parents and health care professions must become more knowledgeable about the choking game, not only because it is very dangerous, but also it is most likely being played in their own community.