dailymail.co.uk
Teen Dies in Social Media Collision Game; Expert Warns of Higher Risk Than Traditional Football
A 19-year-old died after participating in Run It Straight, a social media craze involving high-speed collisions, prompting a leading Australian neurologist to label it more dangerous than traditional football codes due to the risk of severe head trauma, even death, and advocating for its ban.
- What are the immediate consequences and global implications of the death of a teenager participating in the Run It Straight challenge?
- Run It Straight, a social media craze involving full-speed collisions without protective gear, has resulted in a teenager's death and sparked concerns from a leading Australian neurologist. Dr. Rowena Mobbs deemed the activity "a form of harm" and more dangerous than traditional football codes due to the high-impact nature of the collisions. The game, despite causing serious injury, has gained popularity, with some even promoting it as a new sport.
- How does the risk of brain injury in Run It Straight compare to established contact sports, and what factors contribute to this difference?
- The death of a 19-year-old participant has prompted renewed calls for a ban. Dr. Mobbs highlights the potential for devastating long-term consequences, including lifelong disability or death, from even a single traumatic brain injury. She points to the higher force of impact compared to established contact sports, emphasizing the serious risks involved.
- What measures are needed to address the risks associated with Run It Straight, considering its online popularity and the potential for further harm?
- The incident underscores the potential for unregulated online challenges to cause significant harm, exceeding the risks of established sports with safety protocols. The high-speed collisions in Run It Straight, amplified by the lack of protective gear, increase the risk of severe head trauma and brain injury. Continued popularity and the potential for further serious injuries make regulation or banning necessary.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The headline and opening sentences immediately highlight the danger and link the game to a death. The article prioritizes negative aspects and expert opinions condemning the game. This framing guides the reader toward a predetermined conclusion about the game's inherent danger.
Language Bias
The article uses strong language like "fiercest new collision sport," "harm," "devastating," and "serious consequences." These terms create a negative tone and emotional response, rather than a neutral presentation of the facts. More neutral alternatives could include "new contact sport," "potential risks," "significant consequences," and "adverse effects.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the dangers of Run It Straight and the death of a participant, but it omits discussion of potential benefits or positive aspects of the game, if any exist. It also doesn't explore the perspectives of those who support or participate in the game, beyond mentioning some professional rugby players' endorsement. The lack of alternative viewpoints might skew the reader's perception.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a clear dichotomy: Run It Straight is dangerous and should be avoided. It doesn't explore the possibility of modifying the game to reduce its risk, such as introducing protective gear or altering the rules. This framing simplifies a complex issue.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights a dangerous game, Run It Straight, resulting in death and serious brain injuries. This directly impacts the SDG target of ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages, by showcasing a significant risk to physical and mental health. The game's design increases the risk of traumatic brain injuries, concussions and even death, directly contradicting the goal of reducing preventable deaths and improving health outcomes.