Why Relaxing With True Crime May Signal Deeper Issues
A psychologist has cautioned that finding solace in watching true crime stories might be more than just a harmless pastime. This behavior, often seen as a way to unwind, could hint at underlying psychological concerns.
Streaming platforms like Netflix are packed with chilling documentaries and series that delve into the darkest corners of human behavior. Whether it’s the gripping three-part series based on the “real-life Gone Girl” tale, recounting a couple’s terrifying encounter with a home invader, or Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey, which reveals a disturbing system of manipulation and abuse, these shows have captivated millions.
Despite their popularity, psychologist Dr. Thema Bryant warns that if you find yourself feeling relaxed while watching such content, it’s worth examining why.
The Public Reacts: Divided Opinions
Not everyone agrees with Dr. Bryant’s perspective. Many viewers believe their love for true crime is rooted in fascination, justice, or even personal empowerment rather than comfort with trauma.
One commenter shared:
“The trauma isn’t relaxing to me. It’s the justice that brings me peace—the idea that someone is finally held accountable for their actions, something I never experienced in my own life.”
Others echoed similar sentiments:
“I’m not drawn to the trauma; I enjoy seeing the bad guy get caught and the mystery being solved.”
For some, true crime is nothing more than a harmless hobby.
“I’ve been watching true crime for 40 years, and I’ve never broken the law. It’s just a fascinating genre, that’s all.”
Another person viewed it as a practical awareness tool:
“Exploring the dark side of humanity helps me stay alert. It’s a way to prepare for the unexpected in this chaotic world.”
When the Warning Resonates
While many dismissed the psychologist’s warning, others admitted they found her insights eye-opening and even unsettling.
One viewer wrote:
“Wow, this makes so much sense. I watch these shows to relax, and I never questioned why.”
Another reflected on how true crime helped them cope during difficult times:
“When my mom was dying, I watched real-life crime stories to calm myself. This made me realize how much trauma has shaped my life.”
Some were surprised by how much they identified with Dr. Bryant’s observations:
“It’s true. Peace feels strange to me. I’ve always preferred intensity because calmness feels boring.”
What the Psychologist Says
Dr. Bryant addressed this behavior during her appearance on The Mel Robbins Podcast, where she explored how individuals can heal and reconnect with themselves after experiencing stress or trauma. She posited that the enjoyment of violent or disturbing media might stem from a subconscious familiarity with chaos.
She explained:
“If your idea of winding down before bed is watching three episodes of Law and Order, it’s worth asking yourself, ‘Why is trauma relaxing to me?’”
Dr. Bryant elaborated on how growing up in high-stress environments can shape our nervous systems to associate calmness with discomfort. For some, peace feels foreign and unsettling, leading them to seek out the familiar chaos depicted in true crime stories.
“Reprogramming your nervous system to embrace peace can feel uncomfortable at first, but it’s an essential step toward self-healing. You are worth the effort of learning to find comfort in calmness.”
The Deeper Implications of True Crime Fascination
Dr. Bryant’s insights extend beyond entertainment preferences, touching on how our past experiences influence the way we seek comfort. True crime stories, with their suspenseful plots and resolution-driven narratives, often appeal to those who subconsciously crave the intensity and adrenaline they provide.
Her warning is not about condemning the genre but about encouraging viewers to self-reflect. Why does watching something rooted in trauma and violence bring a sense of relaxation? Is it a habit, a distraction, or a way to avoid confronting deeper emotions?
For some, these questions open the door to greater self-awareness. For others, it’s a reminder to rethink their relationship with the media they consume.
