Uncovering the sinister motivations behind viral online dares.
Debunking Dangers: Unraveling the Allure of Deadly Online Trends
By On receipt
Don't let trending challenges make headlines with consequences that are far fromive.Platforms often get the heat,but media psychologistBenjamin P. Lange lays the blame elsewhere.
Anawful turn of events in Auckland serves as a grim reminder.Two adolescent boys participating in the "Run-it-straight" challenge, where they sprint towards each other without protective gear, resulted in one fatality. "We urge everyone considering participating in a gameor event like this to think about the enormous safety and injury risks," warns Ross Grantham, New Zealand police, post-incident.
Case in Point: Tragic Consequences of the "Run-it-straight" Challenge
Unfortunately, the "Run-it-straight" challenge is just one example of new dares fueled by social media that can lead to fatalities. The "Blackout Challenge,"where participants choke themselves to the point of unconsciousness, has resulted in several deaths. The Cinnamon Challenge, where participants try to swallow a spoonful of cinnamon powder without liquid, has caused deaths in some cases. Even the seemingly harmless "Hot Chip Challenge" has landed several participants in the hospital.
Status, Attraction, and Survival Instincts
Although often associated with younger audiences, research shows that a specific demographic is particularly susceptible to daredevil challenges: "Young men," says media psychologist Benjamin P. Lange of IU International University, in an interview with ntv.de. "The rivalry, especially intrasexual rivalry among young men, is very strong."
Lange attributes this behavior to a form of competitive aggression triggered by the presence of a rival. "I want to win. It's all about status, attractiveness, and evolutionary advantages," he explains.
Gathering Steam: Social Media's Role in the Popularity of Dangerous Challenges
Although often criticized for contributing to these issues, the media landscape is not solely responsible. Studies show that while social media platforms can amplify these challenges, they merely provide the platform for existing behaviors. "Teenagers are still doing this nonsense because they're bored and need stimulation," suggests Lange.
Banning Social Media: Effectiveness and Ethics
The call for social media bans for users under 16 has gained momentum, with petitions circulating and bans already enacted in certain countries. However, Lange questions the feasibility and ethics of such measures. "If someone from TikTok or Instagramwere to honestly tell me: 'We don't want to filter that out because we make traffic with it,' I would say, 'Thank you for the honest answer.'"
In his view, the solution lies in channeling young men's natural competitive instincts into regulated, constructive outlets. "That can also be combat sports, as long as they're run in a regulated manner," Lange suggests.
Side Note:According to studies, the fascination with dangerous challenges among young men can be attributed to factors such as:
- Social media influence and peer pressure
- Thrill and risk-taking
- Belonging and identity affirmation
- Lack of alternative spaces for expression
Addressing the issue requires an interdisciplinary approach, engaging in:
- Education and awareness
- Creating safe online spaces for constructive discussions
- Parental and community engagement
- Regulatory measures for social media platforms to detect and remove harmful content
By understanding the underlying factors driving these challenges and implementing the right strategies, we can help reduce the allure of dangerous online trends and promote healthier online behaviors.
Community policy should emphasize the importance of addressing dangerous online challenges, such as the "Run-it-straight" challenge, the "Blackout Challenge," and the "Hot Chip Challenge," to protect the safety of users. Employment policy in the entertainment industry should consider implementing regulations for platforms that gain traffic from such dangerous challenges, encouraging them to filter out harmful content.
