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Dying for a Thrill
The Fainting Game
By Gina Roberts-Grey
A preemptive conversation with your child that highlights the disastrous effects of this game and offers correct information is a terrific place to begin. "Parents and children must know that kids are seriously injured or impaired and die from doing this," Burns says. "Although it might be uncomfortable to talk about, everyone needs to understand the dangers."
Young boys need to be aware that it is better to be called a "chicken" or a "baby" by their friends than wind up endangering their lives. "Children need to have confidence in their decisions to stay safe," Brillante says. Explain to your child that it is not fun, cool or popular to take dangerous risks. Asking questions such as "Why do you think your friends would want to risk your life or theirs?" "Why do you want to feel 'high'?" and "Do you feel that you need to go along with these actions in order to have friends?" will help you understand your child's mindset.
"If parents are at all uncomfortable with talking about this or with what they learn during a conversation, they should look for assistance immediately," says Burns. Ask a trusted family member to talk to your child about these deadly games. An informative visit to the pediatrician or guidance counselor's office can provide the clear, concise information your child needs to fully understand the dangers.
Children who survive or "perfect" playing this game can become addicted to the high experienced. "The temporary, induced state of euphoria becomes the focus of a child's attention," says Darby. "Achieving it is just as important as taking another drink or finding more drugs."
"One conversation isn't enough," says Burns. "Parents need to continually remind their children of the dangers associated with taking some 'typical' childhood risks."
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