Kakakaba-kaba: How much True Crime shows is ‘too much’?

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Since we have experienced isolation during lockdown, we have discovered interests such as baking or making the famous Dalgona Coffee, watching different types of series, and listening to podcasts.

Most of us had developed a liking (or still do) for True Crime shows (ex. Movies, series, documentaries, and podcasts). This may seem like an innocent hobby for others, watching and listening to podcasts about real-life crime events or shows based off of one, while others see it as somewhat of an alarming interest to have.

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But why do we get interested in it?

A. Curiosity. People become interested in watching or listening to true crime shows because they pique their curiosity, according to experts. According to psychologist Chivonna Childs, people are interested in understanding the mind behind the heinous acts and their cruelty. She adds that being curious is human nature, so liking this genre doesn't make one strange or prone to criminal behavior. 

B. Intellectually challenging. This genre also stimulates fans' minds, making them feel as though they are playing detective or solving a complex puzzle. Learning about the clues, putting the pieces together, and solving the case can be mentally rewarding for someone. 

3. Justice. Even in a documentary, people experience emotional satisfaction when they witness the execution of justice. Rarely do we witness the execution of justice; therefore, these types of shows serve as a reminder that good always prevails.

4. Survival tactic. Research shows that this genre appeals more to women. According to Dr. Child, this makes sense, as women tend to be the majority of the victims in these heinous acts. Thus, it helps them to prepare to avoid being a victim.

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Is watching or listening to True Crime shows bad for me?

Mark Twain once said, "Too much of anything is bad," which also applies to our consumption of true crime shows. According to experts, an individual's attraction to this genre can have both beneficial and negative consequences.

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Viewers told specialists that watching shows in this genre helped them prepare for risky scenarios by enrolling in self-defense lessons, investing in home security technology, and putting personal and loved ones' safety first.

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Yet, even though it made some people more attentive and prepared, it also had a negative and disturbing effect on others’ behavior. Regular consumption (e.g., watching, listening) of true crime shows can produce the following effects:

A. Overwhelmed with increased anxiety, fear, or paranoia about people, locations, and everyday situations;

B. Behavior changes include impatience, being easily surprised, panic attacks, and difficulties focusing;

C. Sleep disturbances caused by nightmares or obsessive thinking about the content; and

D. Re-traumatization: the process of reliving the stress responses you had after a stressful event when you are faced with a new or similar event. 

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How do I balance my interest with true crime shows and caring for my well-being?

Most of the time, watching these shows won't hurt you, but it's important to know these warning signs because they may affect your daily life. Here are some techniques to manage your well-being while preventing overconsumption:

1. You should balance what you watch or listen to about true crimes with other types of entertainment that interest you. Others balance their entertainment by watching comedy shows or engaging in crafts as a way to unwind after a long day.

2. Watch with someone. Confusion or a rise in curiosity may occur after watching just one episode, and having someone to talk to and listen to your opinions will help keep you grounded.

3. If these shows are making you feel and think negative things, take a break from consuming these contents.

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Remember that moderation is a key to consuming contents with heavy topics such as true crime. 

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Reference:

• BetterHelp Editorial Team. (2024b, October 10). Examining The Popularity Of True Crime And Its Impacts | BetterHelp. https://www.betterhelp.com/advice/general/examining-the-popularity-of-true-crime-and-its-impacts/ 
• Clinic, C. (2024b, June 27). Is Your Love of True Crime Impacting Your Mental Health? Cleveland Clinic. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/psychological-effects-of-watching-crime-shows 
• Merez, A. (2022, October 24). Why Is True Crime So Addictive and Is It Bad for Your Mental Health? Spot PH. Retrieved October 19, 2024, from https://www.spot.ph/newsfeatures/trending/90961/true-crime-and-how-does-it-affect-our-mental-health-a4736-20221024?s=e7ln0v2vh5jsjv8ao2oi4kb2ka 
• The Fascination with True Crime: Psychological and Cultural Factors. (n.d.-b). https://www.integrative-psych.org/resources/the-fascination-with-true-crime-psychological-and-cultural-factors