Rising Trend of Strangulation During Teen Sexual Encounters
Recent findings reveal a troubling trend among sexually active teenagers, with nearly half reporting experiences of strangulation during sexual encounters. A study released on March 15, 2024, by the Institute for Addressing Strangulation, part of the Royal College of Physicians, indicates that 43% of under-18s have engaged in or experienced this dangerous practice, commonly referred to as “choking.” This alarming statistic raises significant concerns about the normalization of such behavior among young people.
The study highlights the distressing impact of strangulation, with 36% of participants expressing feelings of fear during the act, while 21% reported severe physical symptoms, including dizziness and loss of consciousness. The normalization of choking raises urgent questions about the influences shaping these behaviors and the potential long-term consequences on young people’s health and well-being.
Understanding the Prevalence of Strangulation
Experts identify two key factors contributing to the rise of strangulation during sexual activity. Firstly, there has been a dramatic increase in young people’s exposure to online pornography. A 2023 report by the children’s commissioner found that the average age for first encountering pornography is 13 years, with many children accessing it even earlier. This early exposure occurs before they have the emotional maturity to comprehend its implications.
Secondly, the depiction of choking in pornography has become more frequent. Research indicates that while such portrayals were nearly absent two decades ago, a recent study revealed that 58% of young people have witnessed strangulation in pornographic material. Anna Moore, an expert on the topic who has written extensively for the Guardian, notes that the accessibility and immediacy of online content have escalated the normalization of extreme behaviors among adolescents.
Moore states, “When I was a teenager, pornography was mostly found in magazines, but today’s online content is vastly different. The ease of access leads to a cycle of escalating exposure to more extreme acts.”
The Harms and Implications of Strangulation
Despite the dangers associated with strangulation, including the potential for severe physical harm, there is a concerning lack of awareness among young people. According to Clare McGlynn, a professor of law at Durham University and advocate for sexual health awareness, the physical risks of non-fatal strangulation (NFS) are significant. “We’ve known for many years about the harms,” McGlynn explains. “Strangulation can lead to lasting cognitive impairments and is now considered the second most common cause of stroke among women under 40.”
Additionally, frequent strangulation can result in long-term neurological impacts, akin to those seen in athletes suffering repeated concussions. McGlynn emphasizes the urgent need for a national campaign to raise awareness about the real risks associated with this behavior.
With strangulation now recognized as a specific offense under domestic abuse legislation in England and Wales, the legal landscape is evolving to address these concerns. The newly passed Online Safety Act aims to criminalize pornography depicting choking, recognizing its potential to influence real-world behavior.
As society grapples with these disturbing trends, it is crucial to foster open conversations about healthy sexual practices and the potential dangers tied to unrealistic portrayals in pornography. Education initiatives must adapt to the changing landscape of sexual media consumption, ensuring that young people receive accurate information about consent and healthy relationships.
In conclusion, the rising prevalence of strangulation during sexual encounters among teenagers highlights a critical need for education and intervention. Addressing the underlying influences and promoting awareness of the associated risks could help mitigate the dangers faced by young individuals in today’s digital landscape.
