Psychologists Explain: 4 Reasons Why You Rewatch the Exact Same TV Show Over and Over
You've finished a series, seen the finale, and now you know how the story ends... But despite this, a few days later you're reopening the first episode of the same series. If you still can't give up the old ones, even though it's possible to discover new series, new characters, and new stories every day, you should know that it's not just a habit.
According to psychologists, there are some reasons related to the brain's need for trust, belonging, and control behind watching the same series over and over again.
Here are the details.
1. Familiar Stories Can Provide a Sense of Security
When we start watching a new series, our brain constantly tries to recognize the characters, understand the events, and predict how the story will progress. However, a series we've watched before gives us the opportunity to return to a world we already know. Knowing who the characters are, how the events will unfold, and where the story will end can create a comforting experience for some people.
According to media psychology experts, especially during intense or stressful periods, people can feel safer by turning to familiar content instead of the unknown.
2. Favorite Characters Can Provide a Sense of Belonging
One of the main reasons we might watch the same series over again could be not just to relive the story, but also to re-experience the bond we form with the characters in that story.
According to a study conducted by Derrick, Gabriel, and Hugenberg and published in the Journal of Experimental Social Psychology, favorite television programs can create a kind of 'social surrogate' effect in people.
The researchers found that individuals could feel less lonely and more connected due to the bond they form with the characters in the series they love.
So, some series may not just be about the characters on the screen for us; they can create a sense of familiar environment over time.
3. Feeling of Loneliness May Lead to Familiar Series
When people feel socially distant or lonely, they may become more attached to things that are familiar to them.
According to research, while favorite TV series cannot completely replace a real social relationship, they can provide a temporary sense of closeness and connection.
Therefore, for some people, re-watching an old series may not just mean recalling past episodes; it could mean returning to a familiar world that makes them feel good.
4. Knowing the End Can Soothe the Brain
While watching a new story, we constantly search for the answer to the question 'What will happen?'. Although this uncertainty may increase the excitement of the viewing experience, it can cause the mind to pay more attention.
According to media psychologist Dr. Pamela Rutledge, people may occasionally turn to content they know the outcome of for a more controlled and predictable experience.
When we open a series we have watched before, we know we won't encounter surprises. This can create a calmer space for some people where they can get away from the uncertainties of daily life.
Watching the Same Series is Not Just a 'Habit'
In short, re-watching a series does not always mean escaping from new things. Sometimes, people can consciously return to content that relaxes them, makes them feel happy, or connects them with beautiful memories from the past.
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