A psychologist has raised concerns over the growing fascination with true crime, warning that if you find watching violent documentaries and crime dramas relaxing, it could be a significant psychological red flag.
In an era where streaming platforms are overflowing with dark and disturbing documentaries that detail real-life horrors, many people have turned to true crime as a form of entertainment. Some even describe it as their go-to genre for unwinding after a long day. However, an expert in mental health is now suggesting that this habit may not be as harmless as it seems.
The True Crime Phenomenon: Why Are People So Drawn to It?
A quick scroll through any streaming service’s library reveals an overwhelming selection of true crime content. Whether it’s chilling docuseries detailing the crimes of notorious serial killers or dramatized reenactments of shocking criminal cases, the genre continues to dominate viewing charts worldwide.
One such example is the real-life Gone Girl documentary, which explores the terrifying ordeal of a couple confronted by a home intruder. Then there’s Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey, a harrowing documentary that exposes the manipulative and abusive control of a self-proclaimed spiritual leader.
For millions of viewers, these stories are fascinating, compelling, and sometimes even oddly comforting. But what if that comfort is a warning sign of something deeper?
Why Experts Believe True Crime Obsession Could Be a Warning Sign
According to psychologist Dr. Thema Bryant, watching violent media as a way to relax might indicate something concerning about a person’s past experiences or emotional state.
Speaking on The Mel Robbins Podcast, Dr. Bryant explained that people who are drawn to true crime may not simply enjoy the mystery or justice aspects of it. Instead, they might find comfort in these dark narratives because trauma has become familiar to them.
“If your idea of unwinding before bed is binge-watching three episodes of Law and Order or another crime show, I would encourage you to reflect on why trauma feels relaxing to you,” she said.
Dr. Bryant suggested that for many people, their attraction to high-stress, intense stories could stem from their own upbringing. Those who grew up in chaotic or distressing environments might have unknowingly conditioned themselves to find peace unsettling and ‘boring’.
“For some, growing up in high-stress households has wired their brains to associate peace with boredom. That’s why certain people need constant stimulation, drama, or adrenaline to feel comfortable,” she added.
Her advice? Try to reprogram your nervous system. If peace and stillness feel uncomfortable, it may be time to lean into that discomfort rather than avoiding it. “You are worth a life that doesn’t depend on stress and chaos,” she assured.
Not Everyone Agrees With the Psychologist’s Take
While Dr. Bryant’s observations have resonated with many, others strongly disagree, arguing that enjoying true crime doesn’t necessarily indicate unresolved trauma.
One social media user countered: “The trauma isn’t what relaxes me—it’s seeing justice served. In my life, I never got the justice I deserved, but these shows give me that closure.”
Another added: “I’m not watching for the violence; I just love the mystery and seeing how criminals get caught.”
Many longtime true crime fans argue that their fascination is completely harmless.
“I’ve been reading and watching true crime for over 40 years, and I’m still on the right side of the prison bars,” one person joked. “It’s just a natural curiosity about the darker side of humanity.”
Others even suggest that consuming true crime might make people more aware and prepared for real-life dangers.
“Understanding the dark side of the world isn’t a bad thing. Watching true crime helps me stay alert and prepared in case I ever find myself in a dangerous situation,” one viewer explained.
Some Viewers Had Eye-Opening Reactions to the Psychologist’s Warning
Despite the pushback, Dr. Bryant’s comments struck a chord with some listeners who had never considered the deeper implications of their viewing habits.
“Wow, this makes so much sense,” one person admitted. “I never thought about why I find these shows so comforting.”
Another shared: “It surprises me that some people actually find peace to be boring. I don’t think I’ll ever get over that.”
One user had a particularly eye-opening realization: “I always watch true crime to relax. This was so enlightening—I had no idea there could be a deeper reason for it.”
A particularly striking comment came from someone who recalled their own difficult personal experience:
“When my mom was dying, I would watch true crime documentaries to calm myself. I never questioned why—until now.”
The Science Behind Trauma and Entertainment Preferences
Psychologists and neuroscientists have long studied how exposure to stress and trauma shapes our responses to different forms of entertainment.
Some studies suggest that people who grew up in chaotic environments might feel naturally drawn to high-intensity stimuli because their nervous systems have been conditioned to function in a state of hyper-awareness. When exposed to calmness or silence, their brains perceive it as unnatural or even threatening, leading them to seek out content that keeps them engaged in familiar high-stress patterns.
Others argue that true crime taps into our evolutionary instincts—humans have always been storytellers, and survival-based narratives are deeply ingrained in our psychology. Watching crime stories allows us to experience danger without actually being in harm’s way, giving us a sense of control over our fears.
Finding a Healthy Balance
Whether or not watching true crime is a red flag depends largely on the individual. If it’s simply a matter of curiosity and storytelling, there’s likely no cause for concern. But if a person feels anxious in peaceful environments or needs high-intensity media to function, it may be worth exploring the root of those feelings.
Dr. Bryant emphasizes that self-reflection is key. If true crime is your go-to relaxation method, it might be worth asking yourself:
- Do I feel restless or uneasy when things are too quiet?
- Do I actively seek out high-stress situations in my personal life?
- Do I struggle to relax without external stimulation?
- Am I using crime stories to avoid processing my own emotions?
If the answers to these questions raise concerns, it could be beneficial to explore healthier ways to unwind—ones that don’t rely on adrenaline, fear, or stress.