Research In Action

The latest dangerous trend of the season is the #BirdBoxchallenge, inspired by the Netflix movie starring Sandra Bullock in which she and her children are forced to blindfold themselves and escape a monster which, if seen, could cause them to kill themselves. The challenge involves people blindfolding themselves and trying to complete tasks, such as running through their houses, walking through New York City, and even attempting to drive (while, of course, filming themselves).

 A popular Youtube personality garnered over 2 million views within a few days of posting her own 24 hour Bird Box challenge. Even "Good Morning America" got in on the act. 

In some of these videos, parents are involving their children in this potentially dangerous challenge. One video even shows a very young toddler blindfolded and running into a wall. Videos like these have prompted Netflix to issue a warning about the challenge: "Can’t believe I have to say this, but: PLEASE DO NOT HURT YOURSELVES WITH THIS BIRD BOX CHALLENGE. We don’t know how this started, and we appreciate the love, but Boy and Girl have just one wish for 2019 and it is that you not end up in the hospital due to memes."

Unlike other dangerous fads that should be avoided at all costs (see Tide Pod Challenge), there might be safer ways for adults to engage in the trend, as in the "Good Morning America" example. However, toddlers and young children should generally be kept out of an activity like this. And, no one should ever drive while blindfolded.