By The World Protection Group 

It’s played by squeezing a friend’s chest or neck to deprive him or her of oxygen and instill a sensation of light-headedness.  Upon release, the sudden pressure sends a torrent of blood thru the carotid arteries into the brain -- a big rush follows, and it is this rush that is addictive.  Known as ‘Space Monkey, ‘Space Cowboy’, ’Knockout’, ’Gasp’, and ’Rising Sun’, depending on where in the world it is played, the ’Passout Game’ is often confused with suicide, and is a phenomena that seems to be growing among the youth of the world.

PLAYING TO DEATH

In its worst form, a child may crave this rush so badly that he or she will play the game on their own, often using ropes, belts, shoe laces, or dog leashes.  There are only moments to undo the choke-hold before things go wrong.  And when they do, there is nothing postmortem that distinguishes the body from a purposeful asphyxial hanging or suicide.  It is only through a thorough investigation, beginning with the lack of a suicide note, that an accidental death can become apparent.

WARNING SIGNS

The good news is that there are some warning signs parents and teachers (and wiser friends) can watch out for.  Severe headaches, marks on the neck, closed doors at odd times, bloodshot eyes.  As always, new grades can precipitate new friends who bring new knowledge of risky behaviors, including narcotics and teenage games.  Most important for prevention, parents should discuss this phenomenon with their children, along with other risky behaviors.

The World Protection Group, Inc. is a Los Angeles-based global provider of executive protection & threat management, uniformed protective service, security consulting and asset protection.  To learn more about WPG, please contact Craig Chamberlain, V.P. of Sales & Marketing at +1-310-550-4319 or by email at cchamberlain@theworldprotectiongroup.com.

For more information, please send your e-mails to swm@infothe.com.

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