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Does intentional asphyxiation by strangulation have addictive properties?

Research Output: Contribution to journal Article Peer-review

Open access

Sustainable Development Goals

  • SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-being
    SDG 3 Good Health and Well

Abstract

Background and aims Intentional asphyxiation leads to cerebral hypoxia, starving the brain of oxygen and inducing hypoxic euphoria, but carries a serious risk of accidental death, especially if practised alone. This article raises the question as to whether it could usefully be regarded as having addictive properties. Methods and results A review of the literature, together with eight case study vignettes, are presented. Intentional asphyxiation can occur with or without sexual activity. Initiation often occurs in adolescence, with development in some cases of an entrenched behaviour pattern, driven by a strong euphoriant effect, without adequate safeguarding from serious harm, and being undertaken by people with co‐morbidities. There does not appear to be strong evidence of seeking support for cessation of the practice. Discussion Intentional asphyxiation behaviours may have addictive properties and understanding this aspect of the problem may be fruitful in guiding research and interventions aimed at addressing it.

Publication Information

Output type

Research Output: Contribution to journal Article Peer-review

Original language

English

Pages from-to (Number of pages)

Pages 718-724

Journal (Volume, Issue Number)

Addiction (Volume 116, Issue 4)

Publication milestones

  • Accepted/In press - 28/08/2020
  • Published - 04/09/2020

Publication status

Published - 04/09/2020

ISSN

0965-2140

External Publication IDs

  • handle.net: 10547/624473
  • Scopus: 85091823477

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