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" Catching Bodies" Exposed: What Parents Need To Know

Recently, while speaking with a group of teens, I was introduced to a troubling trend circulating on TikTok and Snapchat. Teens are showcasing the "bodies" they've caught, referring to their sexual conquests. When i was growing up, "Catching Bodies" meant that someone committed a violent act or murder. When I asked what "catching a body" meant to them, they explained it as having sex with a person—a hashmark on their sexual conquest path. Some teens believe that the more partners they have, the more sexually experienced they are. This phenomenon, known as the "Catching Bodies" trend, is gaining popularity and poses significant risks to the health and well-being of our youth.


What is the “Catching Bodies” Trend?

The “Catching Bodies” trend involves teens making pacts to engage in sexual activities with multiple partners within a specific timeframe, often to boost social status among peers. This behavior is frequently influenced by social media, peer pressure, and group dynamics. We want to prepare you with some information so that you can create a safe space to discuss this with your teen without judgment or shaming.


First let’s discuss the Health Risks. Did you know that in 2023, 32.4% of all cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and primary and secondary syphilis were among non-Hispanic Black or African American persons, even though they made up only 12.6% of the US population? Almost half (48.2%) of reported cases of these STIs were among adolescents and young adults aged 15–24 years. That's a huge risk for teens participating in this trend.


In 2022, teen birth rates for Black adolescents were more than double the rate for White adolescents. Black teens are still two to three times more likely than White teens to become pregnant. While there was a 30% decrease in new HIV infections among young people aged 13–24 from 2018 to 2022, the risk of pregnancy remains high.


In 2022, Black/African American people accounted for 38% (14,553) of the 37,981 new HIV diagnoses among persons aged 13 and older. Despite overall progress, Black/African American people continue to be disproportionately affected by HIV, making up a significant portion of new diagnoses.


Outside of the health risk, participation in this trend can also lead to emotional distress and damage to their reputation. Participation in such trends can lead to feelings of regret, low self-esteem, and trauma. Teens might feel pressured to participate and later experience emotional distress from their actions. Engaging in these activities can harm a teen’s reputation, leading to social isolation or bullying. The impact on their social life can be significant and long-lasting.

Teens often share personal information and experiences on social media and messaging apps. This can lead to privacy breaches, where sensitive information is exposed or shared without consent. The digital footprint left by participating in such trends can make teens vulnerable to cyberbullying. Negative comments, harassment, and shaming can occur online, exacerbating emotional distress.

 

There is a risk of exploitation by individuals who may take advantage of the trend to manipulate or coerce teens into unwanted activities. This can happen through social media, group chats, or other online platforms.


What Can You Do as a Parent?

  • Create a Safe Space: Ensure your child feels they can talk to you without judgment. Open communication fosters trust and allows for honest discussions.

  • Ongoing Conversations: Regularly discuss topics like sex, consent, and self-worth. Continuous dialogue helps reinforce values and expectations.

  • Educate on Risks: Inform your teen about the risks of STIs, HIV/AIDS, and the emotional impacts of such behaviors. Knowledge empowers them to make safer choices.

  • Teach Boundaries & Self-Worth: Help your teen understand that their value isn’t determined by sexual activity. Encourage them to set personal boundaries and respect themselves.

  • Monitor Social Media & Group Chats: Be aware of your teen’s online interactions, especially on platforms with disappearing messages like Snapchat and Instagram. These can facilitate risky behaviors.


How to Start the Conversation

  • Ask Open-Ended Questions: Initiate discussions with questions like, “Have you heard about the ‘Catching Bodies’ trend?” or “What do you think about challenges like these?”

  • Stay Calm & Listen: Avoid reacting with anger or disappointment. Instead, listen to their perspectives to understand their thoughts and feelings.

  • Make It Relatable: Discuss topics like respect, values, and self-care. Relating the conversation to their personal experiences can make it more impactful.

  • Offer Alternatives for Validation: Encourage involvement in activities that build confidence and self-esteem, such as sports, arts, or community service.


Resources for Support

  • 2-1-1:  A free and confidential service that helps people across North America find the local resources they need. You can call 2-1-1, text your zip code to 898-211, or visit 211's website to connect with a resource navigator who will direct you to essential health and social services support. 

  • City of Chicago: The Department of Family and Support Services has compiled a list of resources available to all Chicago residents. You can visit one of the six DFSS Community Service Centers for in-person benefit assessments or speak with support staff for additional guidance.

  • Health Clinics and Schools: Many local health clinics and schools offer sexual health education, testing, and counseling services. Reach out to your local clinic or school for more information on available resources.

  • Local community organizations (Like South Side Help Center): Local non-profit organizations often provide various services, such as arts programs, social services, and community support.Many also offers parent support, as well as testing services for HIV/AIDS and STIs.

  • Local Health Clinics & Schools: Many provide confidential sexual health resources and counseling.

  • Community Programs: Engage with programs that offer mentorship and support for teens.

In closing, Navigating the complexities of adolescence can be challenging for both teens and parents. The "Catching Bodies" trend is just one example of how peer pressure and social media can influence risky behaviors. As parents, it's crucial to stay informed and proactive in addressing these issues with care and understanding.

Creating a safe and open environment for your teen to discuss their thoughts and experiences without fear of judgment is essential. Regular, honest conversations about sex, consent, self-worth, and the risks associated with trends like "Catching Bodies" can empower your teen to make informed decisions. Emphasize the importance of respecting their own boundaries and the boundaries of others, and help them understand that their value is not determined by their sexual experiences.

Monitoring your teen's social media and online interactions can also provide insights into the pressures they may be facing. Encourage them to engage in activities that build confidence and self-esteem, such as sports, arts, or volunteer work. South Side Help Center also provides activities for youth and teens! These positive outlets can offer alternative ways to seek validation and foster a sense of accomplishment.

Remember, teens need guidance, not judgment. Approach conversations with empathy and patience, allowing your teen to share at their own pace. Normalize these discussions so that they feel comfortable coming to you with their concerns. By maintaining an ongoing dialogue, you can help your teen navigate the challenges of adolescence and make choices that protect their health, emotions, and future.

If you need additional support, don't hesitate to reach out to local organizations, health clinics, schools, and community programs. These resources can provide valuable guidance and assistance for both parents and teens. Regular testing and open conversations about trends and safety are key to ensuring your teen's well-being.

Ultimately, your role as a parent is to provide a foundation of love, support, and education. By doing so, you can help your teen develop the skills and confidence they need to make healthy, informed decisions and thrive in all aspects of their life.




Sources: 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Sexually Transmitted Disease Surveillance 2023. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/std/statistics/2023/default.htm


Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). HIV Surveillance Report, 2022. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/library/reports/hiv-surveillance.html


ACT for Youth. (2020). Sexual Health Disparities Among Black Youth. Retrieved from https://actforyouth.net/resources/rf/rf_black-youth-sti_0920.cfm


BlackDoctor.org. (2023). Black Teen Pregnancy Facts. Retrieved from https://blackdoctor.org/black-teen-pregnancy-facts__trashed/



Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). National Overview of STIs in 2023. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/sti-statistics/annual/summary.html


HHS Office of Population Affairs. (2024). Data and Statistics on Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health. Retrieved from https://opa.hhs.gov/adolescent-health/adolescent-sexual-and-reproductive-health/data-and-statistics-on-adolescent-sexual-and-reproductive-health


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