Non-erotic self-choking in five psychiatric inpatients

Recurrent self-choking without suicidal intent has received limited attention in the literature; most reports have focused on the sexual nature of the behavior. The authors describe five psychiatric inpatients who engaged in repeated non-erotic self-choking. Similarities in clinical features of the cases include a history of substance abuse (including abuse of volatile substances), aggressive behaviors, a chronic history of psychotic symptoms leading to repeated long-term hospitalizations, and a sense of relief or pleasure, but no overt sexual stimulation, caused by self-choking. The possible role of limbic system dysfunction in this behavior is considered.