This program exposes “the choking game”…a shockingly foolish and deadly activity among 9-14 year olds that has resulted in the tragic deaths of children across the country. Through interviews with children who have participated in the “game”, siblings and parents of children who have died, and experts and physicians, young viewers get the straight and alarming facts about just how dangerous this “game” is. One young teen describes his personal experiences with the “game” and how his twin brother Gabriel died from it in an attempt to get high without drugs. Dr. Thomas Andrew, a medical examiner, describes what actually happens to the brain when the blood flow gets cut off causing brain damage and possible death. A parent describes and details the tragic death of her son in an attempt to prevent others from the same fate. Gives young viewers information explaining the difference between healthy and dangerous risk taking.
Includes:
video, plus teacher’s resource book, student handouts and pre/post tests in digital format
Awards
CINE Golden Eagle Award
American Library Association (ALA): Notable Children's Video List
Freddie Awards:Finalist
Reviews
An alarming real-life 911 call sets the tone for this timely program. Thirteen-year-old Gabriel is found dead by his twin brother. First-hand accounts from Gabriel's mother and brother as well as interviews with teens and physicians help educate young adults about the risks involved with this increasingly popular activity that involves self asphyxiation. The program outlines the dangers of this "game," medical consequences, and physical symptoms to watch for in young people (e.g., marks on the neck). Peers offer advice to viewers to help them avoid being pressured into taking part in this dangerous activity. Suggestions are offered for alternative, positive risk-taking activities that teens can engage in, but viewers will find these ideas somewhat lame. The documentary-style peer interviews and dramatizations will make teens think twice before participating in this dangerous activity.
- Lisa Hubler, Charles F. Brush High School, Lyndhurst, OH
School Library Journal