Influencer Suffers Spinal Fracture After Attempting Risky Nicki Minaj Stiletto Challenge

A new viral trend testing people’s balancing skills has taken social media by storm, but one influencer has learned the hard way that it comes with serious risks. Her attempt to recreate the stunt left her with a broken spine and a painful recovery just weeks after giving birth.

The challenge, inspired by rapper Nicki Minaj, involves balancing on small household objects while wearing stiletto heels to the beat of Minaj’s song High School. It may look like harmless fun in short clips, but the stunt is far more dangerous than it appears.

A stunt gone wrong

Russian influencer Mariana Vasiuc decided to take part in the challenge and shared the results with her followers on Instagram. In her video, she can be seen perched in high heels on top of a saucepan and a tub of baby formula placed on a kitchen counter.

After releasing the hand of someone nearby who had been helping her balance, Vasiuc wobbled for a brief moment before falling backwards off the counter in a frightening drop.

“I decided to start blogging, and here I am leaving the doctor diagnosed with Th9 compression bending uncomplicated fracture of the body," she explained in her post. "The irony? Karma? Or just life, which always tests our strength at the most unexpected moment.”

A new viral trend testing people’s balancing skills has taken social media by storm,

mariana_vasiuc

Russian influencer Mariana Vasiuc decided to take part in the challenge and shared the results with her followers on Instagram

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A stunt gone wrong

From accident to viral fame

Vasiuc’s tumble quickly spread online, making her an unexpected viral sensation. In a follow-up post, she acknowledged the wave of attention her accident had generated.

"Because of one video, which was unsuccessfully filmed, I woke up a popular person. More than 50 people sent me my reel from different publications today..." she wrote.

"People, thank you for your popularity, for your concerns and for your comments. I’m doing great, following the guidelines and now living in 'star' status."

Understanding the Psychology Behind Social Media Challenges

Human behavior on social media is often driven by a desire for social recognition and validation, a phenomenon underscored by the Social Identity Theory of Self-Categorization (Tajfel & Turner, 1979). This theory posits that individuals strive to enhance their self-esteem by identifying with specific groups and performing behaviors that align with those groups' norms. In the case of viral challenges, participation can be seen as an attempt to gain social approval, fit in with a particular online community, or assert one's identity. Tajfel & Turner's Social Identity Theory of Self-Categorization

Why the challenge is so dangerous

Health experts warn that balancing on unstable objects in high heels can lead to severe injuries, including fractures, concussions, and spinal damage. The risk is heightened when participants are elevated off the ground, as Vasiuc was on her kitchen counter.

While social media thrives on daring stunts and eye-catching challenges, doctors stress that these trends can have lasting consequences. Recovering from a spinal fracture can take months and, in some cases, lead to long-term mobility issues.

Vasiuc says she is now focusing on her recovery and continuing to post updates, although she has made it clear she does not recommend others attempt the challenge.

Moreover, risk-taking behavior, such as attempting dangerous stunts, can be linked to Sensation Seeking Theory (Zuckerman, 1971). This theory suggests that individuals may engage in risky endeavors to experience novel and complex sensations and feelings. The thrill of the unknown and the potential for viral fame may motivate influencers like the one in this case, even when the risks are significant. Zuckerman's Sensation Seeking Theory

What Research Shows About the Impact of Social Media Challenges

Research also highlights the potential negative consequences of participating in viral challenges. A study conducted by the American Academy of Pediatrics (2016) found that these challenges can result in serious bodily harm or even death. Despite these risks, the desire for social recognition and the thrill of risk-taking can outweigh potential dangers, leading to incidents like the one described in the article. American Academy of Pediatrics Study on Viral Challenges

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

In conclusion, while viral challenges might seem like harmless fun, they often tap into deep psychological principles related to social identity and the desire for novel experiences. It's crucial that consumers of social media content, particularly influencers who have substantial followings, understand these underlying motivations and the potential risks involved. As psychologists, our role is to raise awareness about these issues and promote safer online environments. Safer Social Media Practices