Calls to Ban Choking in Porn Following Australian Teen's Death

The death of an Australian teenage girl, suspected to be linked to consensual choking during sex, has reignited discussions about banning the depiction of such acts in pornography. This incident follows the UK's recent ban on pornographic content that includes choking. Despite the growing concern, many remain unaware of the potential dangers associated with this trend. Sexual strangulation, commonly referred to as choking, has gained popularity, particularly among individuals aged 18 to 35, despite the associated risks of severe injury and death. Some researchers attribute this normalization to pornography, while industry members argue that banning such depictions will not eliminate the content or provide necessary education on the risks involved. Debby Herbenick, a professor at Indiana University, emphasizes the dangers of applying pressure to the throat, which can lead to serious health issues, including blood clots and stroke. A recent case involved a 16-year-old girl in Sydney who died after being strangled by her partner during sex, prompting government officials to consider banning pornographic depictions of choking. Critics of such bans argue they may hinder access to essential information and sex education for teenagers. Data from Herbenick's 2021 survey indicated that 58% of women reported being choked during sex, with many instances described as consensual. However, nonconsensual choking poses significant risks, with strangulation being a strong predictor of murder in abusive relationships. Clare McGlynn, a law professor, notes that the prevalence of choking in pornography has increased, leading many young people to view it as a normative practice. The UK's Online Safety Act, which includes a ban on choking in porn, has yet to be enforced. Some industry professionals, like Cherie DeVille, argue that banning porn may not be effective, as consumers can bypass regulations. Herbenick advocates for education and open discussions about the dangers of strangulation and the messaging surrounding it in popular culture.