A worrying new trend has emerged among UK teenagers, with reports of youngsters wrapping themselves in tape, creating a 'cocooned' effect. The bizarre behaviour has sparked alarm among parents and school officials, who fear it could lead to serious injuries or even fatalities.
What's Happening?
Teenagers across the country are participating in this dangerous activity, often filming themselves and sharing the videos on social media platforms. The trend involves using industrial-strength tape to completely encase their bodies, leaving only small openings for breathing.
Safety Warnings Issued
Child safety experts have issued urgent warnings about the potential risks:
- Risk of suffocation if tape covers nose and mouth
- Potential for severe skin irritation or allergic reactions
- Danger of restricted blood flow leading to circulation problems
- Psychological impact of self-restriction behaviours
School Response
Several schools have already sent letters to parents alerting them to the trend. Educational psychologists suggest this may be linked to broader mental health challenges facing today's youth, particularly following pandemic disruptions.
Parental Guidance
Experts recommend that parents:
- Monitor their children's social media activity
- Discuss the dangers of viral challenges openly
- Look for signs of tape residue or unexplained marks
- Encourage positive ways to seek attention or manage stress
Authorities are urging social media platforms to remove dangerous challenge videos and are working with schools to address this concerning development.
