Binge watching is something many people do in their free time. Some think binge watching is harmful, and some believe the opposite. Many different platforms are used to binge watch, such as Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, and Peacock.
NHS.gov shares, “Binge-watching might serve as an easy way to escape reality and avoid negative emotions, which leads to a decrease in choosing other adaptive coping methods.”
People believe that binge watching can be addictive and a waste of time.
These “negatives” that this excessive watching can cause are lack of sleep due to staying up watching, it can cause individuals to feel isolated, and it can be addictive.
Senior Emily Waters expressed, “Binge watching is something that is a good break from everyday life for me. It allows me to detox and relax while enjoying my favorite shows, ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ and ‘Emily in Paris.’”
When you are binge watching, your brain is wanting more and more, and as long as you continue to binge watch, your brain produces more dopamine. These shows are made to keep you intrigued, and each ending of an episode leaves you on a cliffhanger, so you will want to watch more.
In the United States, a significant portion of the population engages in binge-watching, with roughly 70% of Americans admitting to this behavior, and adults aged 30-44 are the most likely to binge-watch.
The top five most binge watched shows in the US right now are “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Friends,” “Breaking Bad,” “Stranger Things,” and “Gilmore Girls.” These shows are fun and intriguing to watch.
I know from experience that binge watching can be a stress reliever and a time to relax. Some days people dedicate themselves to lying around watching their favorite TV shows. This is something that people look forward to doing.
Life can become busy and exhausting, so taking time to relax and rest your brain is important. Do you binge watch in your free time?
Pic Credits- Google