Aug 29, 2025 06:49 PM
https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1096455
INTRO: If you’re a binge-watcher, you’ve probably said, “Just one more episode,” a thousand times over. And though binge-watching may seem like a bad habit, a new study from the University of Georgia suggests there may be some benefits to not turning off the tube.
If you often find yourself watching episode after episode, it may be harder for a story to leave your head, the researchers said. But that’s not necessarily a bad thing. The study found people who marathon movies, shows or books are more likely to remember stories and keep engaging with them through daydreams and fantasies.
“Humans are storytelling creatures,” said Joshua Baldwin, lead author of the study and postdoctoral researcher at the University of Georgia. “One of the functions of narratives is the ability to satisfy motivations for things like connecting with other people, feeling autonomous and confident, and even security and safety.
“Stories have characters that fulfill these roles, and we can satisfy those needs through them.”
Binge-watching may help viewers build mental worlds where stories continue even after finishing the series. And these tales may help them cope in times of stress... (MORE - details, no ads)
INTRO: If you’re a binge-watcher, you’ve probably said, “Just one more episode,” a thousand times over. And though binge-watching may seem like a bad habit, a new study from the University of Georgia suggests there may be some benefits to not turning off the tube.
If you often find yourself watching episode after episode, it may be harder for a story to leave your head, the researchers said. But that’s not necessarily a bad thing. The study found people who marathon movies, shows or books are more likely to remember stories and keep engaging with them through daydreams and fantasies.
“Humans are storytelling creatures,” said Joshua Baldwin, lead author of the study and postdoctoral researcher at the University of Georgia. “One of the functions of narratives is the ability to satisfy motivations for things like connecting with other people, feeling autonomous and confident, and even security and safety.
“Stories have characters that fulfill these roles, and we can satisfy those needs through them.”
Binge-watching may help viewers build mental worlds where stories continue even after finishing the series. And these tales may help them cope in times of stress... (MORE - details, no ads)
