Crime Stoppers of Houston says viral trends can quickly lead to injuries, arrests and life-threatening situations.
HOUSTON — As summer break gives teens more free time, Crime Stoppers of Houston is urging parents to talk with their children about risky online trends that can lead to serious consequences.
The organization is warning families about “teen takeovers,” large gatherings organized through social media, and the “Benadryl Challenge,” an online trend that encourages participants to take dangerous amounts of medication.
Education Specialist and Content Strategist Kaitlynn Doyle said social media has made it easier than ever for risky behavior to spread.
“Many platforms are designed to reward attention, engagement and participation, which can make risky behaviors appear exciting or harmless,” Doyle said.
She said teenagers are especially vulnerable because they’re at a stage where acceptance and a sense of belonging play a significant role in decision-making.
“When dangerous challenges are presented as funny, popular or ‘everyone is doing it,’ teens may underestimate the real risks involved,” Doyle said.
Crime Stoppers defines a “teen takeover” as a large, unsanctioned gathering organized through social media or group messaging apps.
While some events begin as harmless meetups, Doyle said they can quickly become dangerous.
“Property damage, fights, reckless driving, theft or other criminal activity may follow as more people arrive and the situation escalates,” Doyle said. “Because information spreads so quickly online, attendance can grow far beyond what organizers expected.”
The warning comes after several high-profile incidents across the country, including a recent meetup in California that led to widespread disruptions and more than 100 arrests.
Crime Stoppers also is raising awareness about the “Benadryl Challenge,” which encourages people to misuse the allergy medication in an attempt to experience hallucinations.
“Taking more than the recommended dose can lead to serious health complications, including seizures, irregular heart rhythms, breathing problems, loss of consciousness and, in some cases, death,” Doyle said.
She stressed that parents shouldn’t assume over-the-counter medications are harmless simply because they don’t require a prescription.
“Parents should remind teens that medications are safe only when used exactly as directed. Just because something is available over the counter does not mean it is harmless when misused.”
Doyle also encouraged parents to pay attention to changes in their children’s online habits.
Some warning signs may include increased secrecy about social media activity, wanting to attend unfamiliar gatherings, talking about viral challenges without understanding the risks or becoming overly focused on gaining views, likes or followers.
Still, she cautioned against assuming those behaviors automatically mean a teen is participating in dangerous trends.
“These signs don’t necessarily mean a teen is participating in dangerous behavior, but they create a great opportunity for parents to start a conversation,” Doyle said.
She said maintaining open communication can often be the most effective way to prevent risky behavior.
“The best prevention tool is communication,” Doyle said. “When parents stay engaged with their teens’ online world and create an environment where questions and conversations are welcomed, young people are more likely to make safe, informed decisions.”
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