Comprehensive Study Reveals High Prevalence of Strangulation During Sex Among Australian Undergraduates
Strangulation: A Rising Trend in Sexual Practices
A recent study titled "Prevalence of Sexual Strangulation Among Young People in Australia" sheds light on the increasing prevalence of strangulation, also known as sexual asphyxiation or "breath play," among Australian undergraduates. Despite its severe health risks and potential for fatality, this practice is becoming more common. The study aimed to explore the participation in and perceptions of strangulation during sex among young Australians, highlighting a need for greater awareness and education on the topic.
Survey Methods and Participant Demographics
Conducted between 2022 and 2023, the study utilized a cross-sectional online survey targeting 168 undergraduate students from an Australian university. The survey assessed participants' awareness of the harms associated with strangulation, their understanding of its criminalization, and the impact of educational interventions on their attitudes.
The survey revealed striking statistics: 56% of participants reported having been strangled during sex, while 51% admitted to strangling a partner. During their last sexual encounter, 17% of participants were strangled, and 13% had strangled a partner. Gender differences were notable, with 64% of women reporting being strangled compared to 45.5% of men, while 69.1% of men reported strangling a partner compared to 43.9% of women.
Perceptions, Attitudes, and Educational Impact
Participants generally did not perceive strangulation as harmful and had limited knowledge about its criminalisation. Positive perceptions of strangulation were linked to more liberal sexual attitudes. However, a brief educational intervention significantly reduced these positive perceptions, particularly among women.
Before the educational intervention, many participants were unaware of the potential harms of strangulation, such as brain injury, unconsciousness, and even death. Post-education, there was a marked increase in understanding these risks. Despite the dangers, 44.7% of participants reported positive consequences from strangulation, such as a more intense orgasm, while 27.7% experienced negative effects like difficulty breathing and loss of consciousness.
Legal Awareness and Opinions
The study also highlighted a lack of awareness regarding the criminalisation of strangulation. Participants strongly supported the criminalisation of non-consensual strangulation but were less supportive of criminalising consensual strangulation, particularly when it involved breath restriction rather than stopping.
Discussion and Policy Implications
The findings indicate that strangulation during sex is a common practice among Australian undergraduates, with significant gender differences in participation and attitudes. Positive attitudes toward strangulation were associated with more permissive sexual attitudes, particularly among women. This suggests that liberal sexual values may play a role in the normalization of this practice.
The study's findings underscore the potential for educational interventions to reduce positive perceptions of strangulation and improve awareness of its risks. The study recommends that policies focus on educational campaigns to inform young people about the dangers of strangulation during sex. These campaigns should extend beyond domestic violence contexts and be integrated into general sexual health education.
Progressive Therapeutic Collective's Approach to Strangulation in Sexual Play
At Progressive Therapeutic Collective (PTC), we maintain a sex-positive and kink-affirming stance, recognizing that consensual sexual practices, including strangulation, can be an integral part of individuals' sexual expression. We understand that everyone has unique desires and boundaries, and we respect the diversity of sexual practices that people may choose to engage in. Our goal is not to shame or stigmatise any consensual sexual behavior but to promote safe, informed, and mutually respectful sexual experiences.
We encourage individuals to engage in informed sexual play, emphasising the importance of understanding the risks and safety measures associated with practices like strangulation. Education and open communication between partners are crucial in ensuring that all parties are fully aware of the potential consequences and are comfortable with the activities they are participating in. By fostering an environment where individuals feel safe to discuss their desires and concerns, we aim to support healthier and more satisfying sexual relationships.
At PTC, we believe in the power of informed consent and the value of ongoing education in sexual health. Our approach is rooted in the belief that everyone has the right to explore their sexuality safely and consensually. By promoting a non-judgmental and supportive environment, we strive to empower individuals to embrace their sexual identities and experiences fully.
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